Aratashen Winery is a family-run boutique winery located in the village of Aratashen, in Armenia’s Armavir Province, at the heart of the Ararat Valley. Founded by the Egoyan family in 2018, the winery represents a new generation of Armenian winemaking that combines the country’s centuries-old wine traditions with modern technology, careful vineyard management and a strong focus on indigenous Armenian grape varieties.
The estate’s vineyards were planted with Areni and Voskehat, two of Armenia’s most important native grape varieties. While these grapes are often associated with the higher-altitude wine regions of Armenia, Aratashen Winery has chosen to grow them in the warm conditions of the Ararat Valley, creating wines that express a different side of these traditional Armenian varieties. The winery’s first harvest was gathered in 2023, and the first wines were released in 2024 under the SHUNCH / ՇՈՒՆՉ label.
The name “Shunch” means “breath” in Armenian and reflects the philosophy behind the brand — a new breath of Armenian wine rooted in local land, grape varieties and heritage. The first SHUNCH wines were made from Areni and Voskehat, while the range has since developed further. Among its wines is SHUNCH Reserve Areni 2024, produced from Areni grapes and aged in French oak barrels, as well as expressions of Voskehat and sparkling wine made from this indigenous white grape.
Sustainability is an important part of Aratashen Winery’s philosophy. The winery has publicly highlighted the use of solar energy, drip irrigation, water recycling, composting, permaculture and agroforestry practices in its vineyards and production environment. These methods are intended to use resources more efficiently, protect the soil and create a healthier vineyard ecosystem while combining traditional agriculture with modern knowledge and technology.
A visit to Aratashen Winery is not limited to tasting wine. Guests can discover the vineyards and production area, learn about Armenian grape varieties and the winemaking process, and experience SHUNCH wines in the place where they are produced. The winery also hosts tastings, private gatherings, cultural events and other experiences, making it a destination where Armenian wine, food, landscape and hospitality come together.
The setting itself is an important part of the experience. Visitors often mention the carefully maintained vineyards, gardens, terraces and views of the surrounding mountains, as well as the calm and intimate atmosphere of the winery. Reviews frequently highlight the personal approach of the team, the presentation of the tastings and the opportunity to learn directly about the winery’s production methods and wines.
Today, SHUNCH is becoming one of the recognizable young wine labels of the Ararat Valley. The project remains closely connected to its family origins while gradually expanding its wine portfolio and international presence. The winery is located close to Etchmiadzin and can easily be combined with cultural and historical visits in the Armavir region, making it an interesting stop for travelers who want to discover both contemporary Armenian winemaking and the traditions behind it.