Description
Samvel Dog Brandy 500ml is an Armenian brandy from the Samvel range, where every bottling carries its own name, here the Dog. Like other Armenian brandies it is made from white grapes grown in Armenia, distilled and then aged in oak, the method behind one of the country’s most famous exports.
Buy Samvel Dog Brandy Online in NZ
Armenian brandy production dates back to the late 19th century in the Ararat Valley near Yerevan. The spirit built a strong following across the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union, and in Russian-speaking countries it is still commonly sold as konyak, although Armenia now leans towards the word brandy.
Traditional Armenian brandy uses native white grapes such as Voskehat, Garan Dmak and Mskhali. After double distillation the young spirit is laid down in oak barrels, where it takes on an amber colour and softer, fruitier flavours over the years.
Pour it neat at room temperature into a tulip glass or snifter and sip it slowly, the way brandy is usually served in Armenia. Dark chocolate, dried apricots, walnuts or a slice of lemon make good companions, and a drop of water helps the aromas open.
- Brandy from Armenia
- Samvel Dog bottling
- 500ml bottle
Armenian brandy typically shows dried fruit, raisin and vanilla with soft oak spice, finishing warm and rounded.
Producers commonly divide Armenian brandy into ordinary brandies with around three to six years in oak and aged brandies with ten years or more, the older blends being richer and more complex. Today Armenian brandy comes from both large houses, such as the Yerevan Brandy Company behind Ararat, part of Pernod Ricard since 1998, and the Proshyan Brandy Factory, and from smaller producers with their own blends. Letting the glass rest for a few minutes helps the aromas open.
A good pick for anyone exploring brandies beyond Cognac, especially those with an interest in Armenian spirits.
