Here at Mission, we've long been aware of Armenia's viticultural importance, known as the birthplace of winemaking by most historical accounts. Even Biblical texts reference Noah descending from Mount Ararat and planting the first vines for the purpose of making wine, establishing Armenia's multiple millennia in the trade. 

While those of us in the community are well aware of Armenia's winemaking prowess, it wasn't until a decade ago--when Bloomberg placed an Areni Noir in its top wines of 2012--that American wine drinkers became interested in Armenian wines. One of the biggest misconceptions about Armenian wines is that they're always sweet, or aged only in clay amphora rather than traditional oak barrels. Yet, there are countless Armenian wineries making food-friendly, dry, inexpensive, and delicious red and white expressions from unique terrains and altitudes for bargain prices. 

We're going to tell you about one such producer today: Hin Areni.

Founded by the Karapetyan family in 2013, Hin Areni takes the historic elements of Armenian winemaking and adds in modern vineyard practices to blend the past with the present. All their fruit is hand-harvested and gently pressed with aging in Armenian oak barrels sourced from the Artsakh hillsides. With high-altitude vineyards at over 4,000 feet, its vines are forced to struggle in the rocky and volcanic soils of the Vayats Dzor region, sending them down deep into the earth, giving the wines made there a unique profile. 

The core red from Hin Areni is the ancient Areni Noir varietal, a moderately-tannic and peppery wine with a juicy core that reminds us of Austrian Zweigelt or a spicy Côte du Rhone bistro bottle. The core white is made from Voskehat, known as Armenia's 'golden berry,' with a rich tropical profile, bolstered by a bristling acidity in the vein of a cooler white Bordeaux vintage. 

We're excited to offer both wines today for the bargain price of $9.95, which makes them quite the steal. Try with traditional Mediterranean dishes or grilled meats and let them shine. We recommend decanting the Areni Noir and giving the Voskehat a nice chill before opening. 

Hin Areni Areni Noir Red 2020 750ml - $10.99$9.95

Sourced from high-altitude, ungrafted vines, the indigenous Armenian Areni Noir thrives in the rocky and rich volcanic soils of the Vayats Dzor region. The contrast of these intense climatic and soil conditions gives this wine a mystical elegance and a unique taste developed by the winemaking team. Complex yet delicate, slightly peppery in taste, this wine boasts rich aromas of red berries, a spice in the midpalate, with a fresh finish. At 14% ABV, it pairs perfectly with cheeses and meats.

Hin Areni Voskehat White 2021 750ml - $10.99$9.95

Voskehat, the Queen of Armenian grape varieties, which literally means 'golden seed,' is a white wine with a rich aromatic bouquet, made from grapes harvested in the historic village of Areni, known for its wine making traditions that date back for thousands of years. Supple and elegant, this mineral wine develops floral and citrus notes, as well as aromas of peach and white apricot, while maintaining pleasant acidity and freshness. With vibrant and tangy acidity at 13.5%, it pairs wonderfully with fish and all seafood.