Arakhtan cognac: history, overview of types + interesting facts

Arakhtan is an excellent example of real Armenian cognac, which many connoisseurs consider almost a standard among alcoholic beverages. This brand is produced by Great Valletu and is considered one of the youngest.

The largest share of alcohol (about 60% of the production) is supplied to Russia, while the rest is exported in equal parts to Belarus, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and Moldova. It is no coincidence that the product is designed for the CIS countries, as it has a relatively low price for good quality.

Brand history and specifics of production

The Great Valletu company itself dates back to 1998: it was then that Tigran Arzakantsyan bought all the property of the bankrupt Artashat distillery under the hammer. Thus, the enterprising businessman got an almost completely ruined enterprise with long-standing outdated equipment.

However, the owner of Velyka Dolyna did not invest in repairs first - he found another way out, thanks to which the company managed to rise from nowhere. Tigran hired Robert Azaryan, one of the best cognac masters in all of Armenia. The businessman made an offer to the blender that he simply could not refuse, namely, he offered him to create his own branded drink.

The basis of "Tsar Tigran" was taken from the alcohol of forty years of aging, left in the cellars of the former owners. Multiplied by the experience of the country's best craftsman, this raw material created a wave of courage: the Great Valletu company managed to get back on its feet.

The company is one of the largest cognac producers in the country. In addition to Arakhtan and Tsar Tigran, the company has another brand that is exported abroad. However, Sevan is less popular than Arakhtan, even though it was patented a year earlier than its competitor.

Types of Arakhtan cognac

1. Arakhtan 3 stars

   Excellent cognac, three years old. It is characterized by a light golden color, as well as a tart aroma, which contains woody notes and tones of nutmeg.

   The rather mild taste has an apple flavor, which is then overlapped by a grape aftertaste. Usually consumed with cheeses, poultry, or seafood.

2. Arakhtan 5 stars

   The drink has a bright golden color and the same nutty aroma, complemented by orange notes.

   The taste is soft and velvety, with a pronounced green apple that goes well with white grapes.

   Most often this cognac is used as a digestif, but it is often consumed with olives, coffee or chocolate.

3. Arakhtan seven-year old

   Thanks to a long infusion in an oak barrel, it acquires a deep amber color, tinged with mahogany tones.

   The balanced taste is reminiscent of the five-star Arakhtan, but due to the presence of spices it seems refined and new.

   The drink is served with lean meat or cheese, and often serves as a basis for cocktails.

Interesting facts

1. In fact, the production technology of Arakhtan cognac is no different from French traditions. The only difference is in the grape varieties: only grapes ripened in the Ararat Valley are used for this cognac.

2. The grape varieties Garan Dmak and Voskeat, from which the cognac is made, are harvested almost one day a year - at the very beginning of October. The company's management strictly monitors that each berry that gets into the cognac is fully ripe, and at the same time does not fall under the autumn frosts.

3. The containers used for the maturation of alcohol are almost completely free of iron. Each barrel is handmade, and the material for them is ripe Caucasian oak.

Update: 08.02.2020

Category: Brandy and Cognac