Old Bridge 2020 Estate Reserve Areni Noir – Arpa Valley, Vayots Dzor, Armenia
The Old Bridge 2020 Estate Reserve Areni Noir stands as one of Armenia’s benchmark red wines — a captivating expression of the country’s ancient terroir and world-class craftsmanship. As Stepan Baghdassarian notes, “Old Bridge Estate Reserve Areni Noir stands among our top-selling Armenian wines — and indeed, among our best-selling wines of all time.”
Born in the rugged beauty of Arpa Valley in the Vayots Dzor region, this limited-production wine perfectly balances the depth of Armenia’s 6,100-year-old winemaking heritage with the precision of modern enology.
Tasting Notes
The 2020 Old Bridge Estate Reserve Areni Noir reveals a deep garnet hue with inviting aromas of dried black fruits, cracked black pepper, coffee, and leather, accented by subtle touches of smoke, game, and spice. On the palate, it unfolds with silky tannins, lively acidity, and remarkable balance, showcasing elegant layers of black cherry, plum, espresso, tobacco leaf, and savory oak.
As it evolves in the glass, notes of honey, clove, and dark chocolate emerge, framed by a refined structure that leads to a long, harmonious finish. This is a red wine of finesse and intensity — powerful yet graceful, authentic yet cosmopolitan.
Winemaking & Terroir
Crafted entirely from 100% Areni Noir, Armenia’s noble indigenous grape, this Estate Reserve is grown on the hillsides of the Arpa Valley at an elevation of 1,200–1,250 meters above sea level.
The vineyards benefit from a dry continental climate, dramatic day-night temperature swings, and mineral-rich soils composed of sand, silt, and clay — all ideal for cultivating grapes of extraordinary complexity and freshness.
Hand-harvested in small 15 kg boxes, the grapes undergo fermentation in stainless steel tanks (25°–28°C for 15–20 days), followed by malolactic fermentation and 24 months of aging in 350L Caucasian oak barrels. The result is a wine that bridges tradition and innovation — an ode to both Armenia’s ancient viticultural legacy and the modern craft of winemaking.
Producer’s Vision
Founded as a family winery in 1998, Old Bridge is a labor of love that transformed a once-barren landscape into thriving vineyards along the Arpa River. Guided by winemakers Armen Khalatyan and Arman Manoukyan, the estate remains deeply committed to authenticity, quality, and the spirit of Armenia.
Every bottle tells a story of perseverance, craftsmanship, and devotion to the land — where the soul of Areni Noir finds its most elegant and expressive form.
Food Pairing
This versatile, structured red wine pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled lamb, filet mignon, and dry-aged steaks
- Armenian khorovats (barbecue) and spiced kebabs
- Wild mushroom risotto or roasted eggplant
- Aged cheeses such as Manchego, Gouda, or Armenian Lori
Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight its complex aromatics and smooth tannins.
Key Facts
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Vintage: 2020
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Region: Arpa Valley, Vayots Dzor, Armenia
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Grape Variety: 100% Areni Noir
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Vineyard Altitude: 1,200–1,250 meters
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Aging: 24 months in Caucasian oak
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Alcohol: 13.5–14%
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Style: Elegant, structured, and full-bodied red
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Winemakers: Armen Khalatyan & Arman Manoukyan
Why We Love It
A truly world-class expression of Armenian terroir, the Old Bridge Estate Reserve Areni Noir 2020 combines ancient DNA with modern precision. It’s deeply expressive yet refreshingly balanced — a must-have for collectors and wine lovers seeking authenticity, craftsmanship, and story in every sip.
