Van Ardi Tor-Tori Red 2022

A high-altitude red that brings the memory of an ancient Armenian wine culture back to life in every sip.

Tor-Tori Red draws its identity from an ancient story: Tor-Tori was the name of a forgotten Armenian grape associated with the region of Van, chosen by the Mouradian family as an echo of their own roots. For this cuvée, Van Ardi combines 90% Areni with 10% Syrah, keeping the Armenian variety firmly at centre stage. In the high-altitude vineyards of Sasunik, volcanic soils and cool nights give Areni a particularly fresh and precise expression, while Syrah contributes spice and added depth.

This vintage opens with vibrant red fruit, showing cherry, wild raspberry and plum alongside blueberry and black pepper. Juicy and fresh on the palate, it carries gentle tannins and a persistent finish. Subtle hints of vanilla and dark chocolate from the oak remain behind the fruit rather than dominating it. An energetic and approachable red in which high-altitude freshness takes precedence over weight and power.

Founded in 2008 by Varuzhan Mouradian and his family, Van Ardi was born from a return to Armenian roots and a clear ambition: to help revive the country’s wine culture on the international stage. Based in Sasunik, in Aragatsotn, the estate’s vineyards sit at around 1,050 metres above sea level on south-southeast-facing slopes and rocky volcanic soils exceptionally rich in minerals. The dry, windy climate, with warm days and cool nights, encourages slow ripening and naturally vibrant freshness. Van Ardi follows certified-organic viticulture and a minimal-intervention approach, placing Armenia’s indigenous varieties — Areni, Haghtanak, Kakhet, Voskehat and Kangun — at the heart of its wines and allowing the character of the terroir to come through.