KOOR Wines

KOOR Wines emerges within Vayots Dzor's extraordinary archaeological and viticultural continuum—Armenia holds claim to the world's oldest known wine production facility (4100 BCE, Areni-1 cave). Founded by Diaspora Armenians and produced at Semina Consulting's Yerevan winery, KOOR represents a contemporary effort to connect with Armenia's indigenous variety heritage. The brand's focus on Areni and Sireni (Khndoghni) blends honors Armenia's deepest winemaking traditions while employing modern winemaking technology.

• Areni-1 archaeological site proved Armenia cultivated Vitis vinifera 6,000 years ago—KOOR's Areni production literally continues this ancient practice
• Soviet collectivization (1920-1991) prioritized high-volume table wine production; KOOR's small-batch approach reclaims pre-industrial Armenian identity
• International recognition began accelerating ca. 2019-2020 as importers and sommeliers discovered Armenian indigenous varieties' potential

Vayots Dzor, meaning 'gorge of sorrows,' occupies Armenia's southernmost wine region and sits among the world's highest vineyards at 1,400-1,500 meters elevation. The region experiences extreme continentality—hot, dry summers (28-32°C) contrast sharply with cold winters, creating dramatic diurnal temperature variation (15-18°C swings) that extends ripening and builds phenolic complexity. KOOR's specific sites feature volcanic basalt soils derived from ancient lava flows, rich in iron and mineral-binding minerals that impart distinctive geological character to Areni Noir and Sireni (Khndoghni).

• Elevation creates 145-160 day growing seasons with intense UV exposure, building natural acidity retention even in ripe fruit
• Annual rainfall: 350-400mm—below many wine regions, naturally limiting yields and concentrating flavors
• Basalt soils contain up to 8-12% iron oxide, contributing to wines' distinctive tannin structure and mineral precision

KOOR's production focuses on Armenia's indigenous varieties: Areni Noir (the ancient red) and Sireni, also known as Khndoghni (an indigenous red variety from Artsakh). KOOR produces conventional blends of these two varieties, aged in French oak, at 14% ABV. Areni Noir demonstrates remarkable complexity with savory, spiced characteristics and firm tannin grip. Sireni (Khndoghni) contributes additional structure and depth to the blend.

• Areni Noir: naturally low-pH (2.8-3.0), high tannin potential (280-350 mg/L), capable of significant aging
• Sireni (Khndoghni): indigenous red variety from Artsakh, blended with Areni in KOOR's conventional style wines
• KOOR wines are aged in French oak and produced at 14% ABV using modern winemaking technology

KOOR's winemaking is carried out at Semina Consulting's Yerevan winery, employing modern winemaking technology. The wines are conventional blends of Areni and Sireni (Khndoghni), aged in French oak. Highland Cellars, the producer behind KOOR, was founded by Diaspora Armenians committed to showcasing Armenia's indigenous grape varieties to an international audience.

• Produced at Semina Consulting's Yerevan winery using modern winemaking technology
• French oak aging contributes structure and complexity to the Areni and Sireni (Khndoghni) blends
• Founded by Diaspora Armenians with a mission to promote Armenian indigenous varieties internationally

KOOR Wines, produced by Highland Cellars, has gained attention among importers and collectors interested in Armenian indigenous varieties. The brand is available through koor.am and represents part of Armenia's broader emergence as a wine region of interest to the international market. Armenia's indigenous varieties, particularly Areni Noir, have attracted growing curiosity among sommeliers and wine enthusiasts seeking distinctive, terroir-driven expressions.

• Produced by Highland Cellars, founded by Diaspora Armenians, with an international audience in mind
• Available through koor.am, representing Highland Cellars' commitment to Armenian wine promotion

KOOR's wines pair authentically with Armenian cuisine's characteristic flavor profiles—the Areni Noir and Sireni blend's savory tannins and spiced aromatics complement lamb khorovatz (kebab), lula kebab (ground meat), and herb-forward preparations typical of Caucasian cooking. Culturally, KOOR represents a reclamation of Armenian winemaking identity post-Soviet standardization, positioning wine as vehicle for national and regional heritage.

• Areni-Sireni blend + lamb prepared with pomegranate and walnut sauces (traditional Armenian khorovatz accompaniments)
• Areni-Sireni blend + grilled organ meats (liver, kidney, heart) typical of Caucasian dining tradition
• Areni-Sireni blend + slow-braised preparations with dried fruits and spice reflecting Armenian culinary heritage