From cognac to quince wines, experience the taste of Tovuz

Further west still, Tovuz has a striking replica fortress set inside a roundabout at the town’s East entrance and is home to Tovuz Baltiya, a winery best known for its brandies, but which makes a variety of table wines as well as an eclectic series of still and sparkling wines from pomegranate and quince containing medicinal properties that impart a positive effect on cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and other diseases. The winery enjoys a favourable location in the West of Azerbaijan, near the new Silk Road. German settlers gave fresh impetus to winemaking here in the 19th century, while wines and brandies produced in Tovuz were well-regarded throughout the Soviet Union. Continuing this heritage, Tovuz Baltiya winery produces high-quality beverages which are bottled using French technology and in accordance with European standards. If you don’t have time to travel to the beautiful Tovuz District in West Azerbaijan, you can always head to Tovuz Baltiya Tasting Room for a taste of still, sparkling, quince and pomegranate wines, plus brandies, all produced by the winery Tovuz Baltiya. The team will also advise you on the best food-wine pairings and reveal some of the secrets of winemaking in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains terroir.

The winery boasts lovely views of Tovuz’s idyllic countryside and tours are available when prearranged. But if you don’t fancy travelling all the way to the far West of Azerbaijan you can always call into the Tovuz-Baltiya store in central Baku (Shamsi Badalbeyli Street) instead to sample the winery’s full range of brandies, wines and champagnes

WINE SUGGESTIONS

Tovuz pomegranate wine

This semi-dry red pomegranate wine is made from locally grown pomegranates. It has a rich dark ruby colour and harmoniously balanced taste. It goes well with delicious dishes, cheeses, and fruits.

Manat Gold Wine quince wine

A semisweet quince wine with a rich amber colour and harmoniously balanced flavour. It goes perfectly with light snacks, chocolate, ice cream, and cakes.

Semillon semi-dry white table wine

This wine is produced from Semillon and Bajanshire grapes and has a light straw to golden colour. The flavour is delicate, harmonious and tender. It is best served chilled with fish, vegetables and cheese or light snacks.