Chesar 2020 Old Vine Areni – Aghavnadzor, Armenia
An elegant, terroir-driven Armenian red born from 45-year-old vines and centuries of royal heritage.
Description & Tasting Notes:
Experience the essence of Armenian winemaking with the Chesar 2020 Old Vine Areni, a refined, single-vineyard red wine from the high-altitude village of Aghavnadzor in the renowned Vayots Dzor region of Armenia. Crafted from 100% Areni grapes, this elegant wine comes from a 45-year-old, south-facing vineyard at 4,200 feet elevation—organically managed and steeped in history.
Chesar is a tribute to Prince Chesar, a revered 13th-century noble known as the “prince of princes,” who helped shape the cultural and economic landscape of Vayots Dzor. The wine’s label proudly features the royal eagle from his coat of arms and artwork inspired by Momik, the famed Armenian sculptor and architect of the medieval era.
In the glass, Chesar 2020 displays a luminous ruby hue. The aroma opens with lifted notes of red cherry, wild strawberry, and a hint of dried rose petals, intertwined with delicate earth, minerality, and subtle spice. On the palate, this Areni is vibrant and graceful—showcasing flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, and light herbs, supported by soft tannins and refreshing acidity.
The wine is fermented in stainless steel and aged for six months in second-use Artsakh oak barrels, resulting in a wine that’s light on its feet yet full of authentic character. The transparency of the winemaking allows the unique terroir—a mix of rocky, limestone, and clay soils—to fully express itself.
Key Features:
- 100% Areni from organically farmed 45-year-old vines
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Single vineyard in Aghavnadzor, Vayots Dzor at 4,200 ft elevation
- Aged 6 months in used Artsakh oak barrels
- Honoring Prince Chesar and Armenia’s cultural legacy
- Minimal intervention and manual vineyard management
Food Pairing Suggestions:
Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roasted poultry, herbaceous stews, and aged cheeses. A great match for Mediterranean dishes and Armenian cuisine like khorovats and dolma.
Serving Temperature:
Serve slightly cool at 58–62°F (14–16°C) to enhance its freshness and finesse.
Perfect For:
Fans of Pinot Noir, Gamay, or Nebbiolo looking for a unique, ancient-world wine with elegance, complexity, and a story to tell.
