The world premiere of Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy illuminated the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo in September, marking a milestone for Armenia’s cultural and gastronomic heritage on the European stage. The cocktail presentation, hosted in the magnificent Salle Belle Époque, welcomed a distinguished audience including H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and Arman Khachatryan, Ambassador of Armenia to France.

A Celebration of Armenian Art and Culture

The evening unfolded as a celebration of Armenian artistry — a symphony of fine gastronomy, traditional music, and vibrant folk dance. Guests also enjoyed an exhibition of Armenian art curated in partnership with Galerie Angelina and the Artists’ Union of Armenia, offering a glimpse into the country’s creative legacy.

The highlight came with a private tasting led by Bruno Scavo, former Head Sommelier of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, who guided guests through the refined aromas and layered complexity of Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy. This moment marked not just a product debut, but the introduction of an entirely new category in the world of spirits — Royal Brandy.

Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy is the world’s first Royal Brandy, a luxury spirit born in Armenia that unites heritage, innovation, and elegance. Created for connoisseurs who value authenticity and refinement, it embodies the artistry and spirit of Armenian craftsmanship.

Behind this ambitious project stands Simon Pogossian, founder of SPS Cigaronne and Newline Brands Global LLC, whose family has spent more than 30 years shaping excellence in the luxury sector. Today, that legacy continues under the leadership of his son, Armen Pogossian, 27, who brings a contemporary vision and international outlook.

“Jardins d’Arménie is the expression of our history, our art, and our savoir-faire. Each sip embodies the strength of our land and the finesse of our craftsmanship,” said Armen Pogossian. “To unveil it in Monaco, in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, is a powerful symbol — sharing Armenian excellence with Europe.”

The Birth of “Royal Brandy”

More than a product, Jardins d’Arménie introduces Royal Brandy, a pioneering category that redefines the boundaries of fine spirits. Crafted from Voskehat grapes grown across three regions of Armenia, the brandy is produced by master distillers who marry ancestral methods with modern precision.

Its maturation journey is entirely unique — beginning in oak casks that impart notes of chocolate and vanilla, continuing in apricot wood, a hallmark of the house that adds fruit and spice, and returning once again to oak for final refinement.
The result: a spirit of elegant structure, layered aromas, and exceptional length on the palate.

“Apricot wood embodies Armenia — its fruit and spice notes cannot be replicated with other woods,” explains Armen Pogossian. “It gives Royal Brandy its unique signature.” 

Innovation with Integrity

At the heart of Jardins d’Arménie lies a philosophy that blends innovation with authenticity. Two key innovations define the brand:

1. Apricot-wood aging, now a hallmark of the house.
2. A patent-pending hermetic cap, composed of two interlocking elements that ensure an airtight seal — preserving aroma integrity from cellar to glass.

“Innovation must serve integrity,” says Armen Pogossian. “The closure reinforces transparency and reliability in an industry often built on image,” 

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Each bottle is presented with handcrafted tasting cups, allowing connoisseurs to preview the spirit before purchase — a refined gesture that places sensory experience above status. The sustainable, handcrafted case reflects this same philosophy: understated, purposeful, and elegant.

“Luxury has meaning only when it is honest and innovative. We want people to be guided by quality, not by labels,” adds Armen Pogossian.

Craftsmanship and Legacy

The launch of Jardins d’Arménie marks a new chapter in the Pogossian family’s pursuit of excellence. Through Cigaronne and Newline Brands Global LLC, the family has built a reputation for craftsmanship and creativity, offering timeless experiences to a discerning global clientele across more than 40 countries.

With Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy, Armenia steps confidently into the world of haute spirits — a meeting point between heritage and innovation, authenticity and artistry.

Cognac and Brandy: Understanding the Difference

All Cognac is brandy, but not all brandy is Cognac. The distinction lies in origin and regulation. Brandy is a broad category of spirits distilled from wine, produced in many regions worldwide, each with its own traditions and character. Cognac, by contrast, is a protected designation — it can only be produced in the Cognac region of France under strict AOC regulations, using specific grape varieties and aging exclusively in French oak. While Cognac represents a codified expression of French craftsmanship, brandy allows freedom of creation and innovation — enabling producers like Jardins d’Arménie to reinterpret the spirit through local heritage and modern artistry.