Ararat Brandy is the most iconic expression of Armenia’s distillation heritage, produced by the Yerevan Brandy Company since 1887. It is made exclusively from local white grape varieties grown in the Ararat Valley and neighboring regions, followed by double distillation that yields a clean, aromatically concentrated spirit. Maturation takes place in Caucasian oak barrels, whose old, dense wood imparts notes of dried fruit, nuts, vanilla, and gentle spice. The range includes various cuvées - from classic, younger expressions to premium and long-aged editions such as Akhtamar, Nairi, and Erebuni, some of which mature for decades. Ararat is appreciated for its clarity of style, balanced structure, and the way it unites traditional production methods with the character of the local terroir, establishing it as one of the most respected brandy producers in the region and beyond.
Yerevan Ararat Brandy Factory, known under the NOY brand, represents the modern continuation of one of Armenia’s oldest distillation traditions, with origins dating back to 1877. The factory was restored in the early 2000s on the historic site of the former Erivan fortress and the palace of the Sardar, where the production of brandy, wine, and fruit spirits was reestablished. NOY’s portfolio includes a wide range of products - from classic three- and five-year-old brandies to long-aged editions matured for two, three, or even five decades. Production relies on traditional double distillation and extended aging in Caucasian oak, which imparts characteristic notes of dried fruit, nuts, and vanilla. The factory presents its history, production techniques, and modern product lines as part of its identity, positioning NOY as a brand that bridges Armenian heritage with contemporary distribution and renewed quality.
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot,
nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable.
For the “Top 3 Armenian Spirits” list until June 24, 2026, 60 ratings were recorded, of which 38 were recognized by the system as legitimate.
TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods,
instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.
The initial list of top producers was compiled based on available reviews, awards, local recommendations, media and blog coverage, and consumer reviews.
The list will be updated with ratings from TasteAtlas local ambassadors and TasteAtlas users.
