Nestled to the southwest of Gabala lies the enchanting Savalan Valley, renowned for its flourishing vineyards. This picturesque plateau is situated just 25 kilometers from Gabala, and on clear days, it offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain peaks that frame the landscape. In the valley, the village of Garadein is home to a grape processing plant owned by ASPI AGRO LLC, a company founded in 2007 with a primary focus on grape cultivation and the production of premium wines.
In the aftermath of the Soviet Union’s dissolution, the area had little to offer in terms of viticulture. However, a group of visionary entrepreneurs recognized the potential to invest “oil money” into a venture that would diversify their economic reliance beyond petroleum. They embarked on a mission to establish a winery almost from scratch, sourcing both grapevines and equipment at exorbitant prices from Italy.
The winery is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery from the renowned Italian company Della-Toffola. Today, it stands as a major winemaking enterprise where the latest Italian technologies are employed to craft exquisite wines. The focus here is on producing elite wines that adhere to the finest traditions of Italian quality.
In just over a decade since its inception in 2007, Savalan has emerged as one of the most popular and widely recognized high-quality wine varieties in Azerbaijan. While the cutting-edge equipment has yet to pay for itself, the entrepreneurs’ goal, as they assert, is not solely about profit but rather about elevating Azerbaijan’s profile on the international wine stage. Thus, in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus, the ancient art of winemaking is being revived in Savalan Valley, an area blessed with unique climatic conditions that once fostered a thriving wine industry.
Though the grapevines have not yet fully matured, they already blanket vast stretches of the hilly terrain south of Gabala. This region sits at an elevation of approximately 400 meters above sea level, providing an ideal environment for viticulture. Wine tastings in Savalan are held at an exceptional level, featuring a director’s conference room adorned with elegant decor, specialized lighting embedded in the tasting table, exquisite glassware, and gourmet snacks—creating a truly VIP experience.
The tasting sessions offer more than just a chance to sample wines before making a purchase; they provide an immersive masterclass for connoisseurs! Over the course of an hour and a half, guests learn the art of properly inhaling the wine’s aroma, swirling it on their palate, and assessing its color, clarity, and viscosity. While you may not become a certified sommelier, you will undoubtedly gain a wealth of knowledge about the intricacies of wine tasting. 🍷