One of Azerbaijan’s most appealing destinations for wine tourists

Half hidden amongst hilltop vineyards in a deeply rural corner of Ismayilli District, Chabiant’s winery (Chateau Monolit) is one of Azerbaijan’s most appealing destinations for wine tourists thanks to a quality guesthouse with open-air swimming pool, a splendid tasting room and impressive wine storage cellars designed to look centuries old.

Set at an altitude of around 750 m, the naturally rain-fed soils of the terroir produce excellent quality grapes that benefit from sun-soaked days but mildly chilly nights. Over recent years, the winemaking here has undergone a major rethink and now aims to ‘bring new life to local viticulture in Azerbaijan.’ If you’re exploring the area, don’t miss a side trip to the rural villages of Lahij and Basgal, famed for their stunning copperwares and traditional silk-scarf making (kelaghayi) respectively.

The winery is located in the settlement of Hajihatamli along a scenic country lane linking Goychay and Ismayilli. As well as a host of great food and wine, tours also offer live music and other activities. Chabiant also organises a harvest festival in late August and a Vino Nuovo celebration in late-November mimicking Beaujolais Nouveau festivities worldwide.

WINE SUGGESTIONS

Chabiant Rosé – Azerbaijan isn’t generally known for its rosé wines, but Chabiant has come up with a refreshing game changer made from 100% local Matrasa grapes. Coloured a mellow salmon-pink, the medium-bodied wine has an array of subtle citrus notes (mandarin, grapefruit) and a pleasantly long finish. 

Chabiant Rkatsiteli-Mtzvani – This pale-coloured, dry white is a dual cépage combining 70% Rkatsiteli with 30% Mtzvani grapes. Pairing well with seafood, the wine is crisp with a moderate acidity softened by notes of melon and pear. 

Chabiant Saperavi-Cabernet Sauvignon – If you like dry, mildly peppery reds, this deeply coloured tannic mix of Saperavi (70%) and CabSav (30%) is a strong choice with hints of toast, spice and cloves yet a clean, fresh finish offering a fine accompaniment to pasta dishes.