Areni

Areni, or Areni Noir, is a red grape variety originating from Armenia. It is most commonly used in the production of dry, full-bodied red wines, which often display intense aromas and flavours.

Areni typically produces dark-skinned grapes, which are small in size and tannin content. The resulting wines are known for their deep ruby color, accompanied by intense aromas of cherries, blackberries, plums, and spices. The taste profile of Areni wines is full-bodied and concentrated, with firm tannins, a medium-plus level of acidity, and a long finish.

Areni is most widely grown in Armenia's Vayots Dzor region, where it is used to make the famous Areni Noir wines. It is also grown in Iran, Georgia, and Turkey, where it is used to make predominantly dry red wines. Due to its thick skins, Areni is resistant to fungal diseases and pests, making it a particularly robust variety. It is often blended with other grapes, and is typically blended with Sireni and Karmrahyut. The winemaking process for Areni typically involves cold-soaking the grapes before fermentation, and the wines are usually aged in oak barrels. The full-bodied, rich Areni wines of Armenia are the most famous examples of the Areni grape, and they are typically blended with other local varieties. In Iran, Areni is blended with Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon to create a full-bodied, fruit-forward red wine. In Georgia, Areni is often blended with Saperavi and Ojaleshi to produce a more robust, tannic wine. Areni's bold structure and intense fruit flavors make it an excellent food wine. It pairs well with grilled meats, hearty stews, and rich sauces. It is also a great accompaniment to Armenian dishes such as dolma and khorovats.

Areni is one of the oldest known varieties of grape in the world, having been cultivated for over 6,000 years.

It is also the source of the world's oldest known winery, which was discovered in Armenia in 2008.