Aragatsotn means "the foothill of Aragats." It centres on the Aragats massif and includes the Aparan valley, Talin heights, and the volcanic areas of Arteni, Irind and Tsakhkasar. The region rises from roughly 950 to 4090 metres, and its climate changes markedly with altitude. Vineyards are dry and terrestrial, with gravelly, stony soils. Volcanic tuff, basalt, pumice and limestone occur across the region.
Voskehat, Kangun, Rkatsiteli, Haghtanak, Karmrahyut and Areni Noir are among the main grapes, alongside Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec and Viognier. Voskehat can show stone fruit, pear, melon and floral aromas. It is made in fresh unoaked, skin-contact, and more textured, ageworthy styles. Karas is the Armenian egg-shaped amphora used for wine. Terrace viticulture was widely used during the twentieth century, though some vineyards were later abandoned because irrigation water was scarce.
Inside the region
1 named area
Each guide keeps its place within Aragatsotn clear, with a direct route back to the map.