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Following the official opening of the internationally renowned Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2026, held in Armenia for the first time in history, Northern Terroir, part of the Team Group of Companies, hosted an exclusive private tasting evening at Grand Hotel Yerevan. The event welcomed international sommeliers, wine journalists and industry representatives, hospitality professionals, and tour operators who arrived in Armenia as part of one of the world’s most prestigious wine competitions.

Bringing together some130 guests, the event aimed to introduce international visitors to the landscapes, gastronomy, and indigenous grape varieties of Tavush, one of Armenia’s northern wine regions, while highlighting the country’s growing role within the global wine industry.

Held under the concept of “Wild Luxury,” the evening was designed as an immersive presentation of northern Armenia through wine, food, aroma, and storytelling. Guests were guided through a tasting experience centered around Lalvari and Banants, indigenous Armenian grape varieties that stand at the core of Northern Terroir’s wines.

“Hosting international wine professionals during CMB 2026 was an important moment not only for Northern Terroir, but for Armenian wine more broadly,” said Zara Mazmanyan, General Director of Northern Terroir. “We wanted guests to experience Tavush not only through wine, but through its food culture, atmosphere, and the people behind the region.”

The tasting presentation was led by Northern Terroir Brand Ambassador Aram Kirakosyan, who introduced guests to the winery, winemaking philosophy, and the character of Tavush terroir.

Throughout the evening, wines were paired with dishes inspired by regional ingredients and local food traditions. The gastronomic concept was curated by Ani Harutyunyan, Founder of Arm Food Lab, Co-founder of Ootelie Artisan Bakery and Caffeine Coffee Roasters, in collaboration with wine expert Stepan Hajyan.

“Tavush cuisine is deeply connected to seasonality, preservation, and ingredients gathered from the surrounding landscape,” said Ani Harutyunyan. “The pairings were created to reflect the character of the region while naturally complementing the wines.”

The pairings included ZOÉ Sparkling served with wild spring greens and heritage grain sourdough crisps, TUS Classic accompanied by a savory wild mushroom gata reinterpretation, and TUS Reserve paired with free-range Tavush pork.

Such events contribute to Armenia’s growing visibility not only as a winemaking region, but also as an emerging destination for wine tourism, gastronomy, and hospitality.

About Northern Terroir

Northern Terroir was founded in 2017 with a vision to encapsulate the distinctive essence of Armenia’s Tavush province in its wines. Embracing the unique northern terroir of Tavush, our vineyards in Haghtanak village are meticulously tended to harness the region’s natural blessings. Situated at an average altitude of 450 meters, our vineyards benefit from a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and gentle winters.

The professionalism of our specialists, a systematic approach, dedication, and a strong sense of belonging to the team contribute to Northern Terroir’s success and growing recognition.