Interview – Armen Pogossian, Founder of Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy

Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy held its official international launch in Monaco. What made this moment significant?

The launch at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo was a deeply symbolic milestone. Armenian art, music, and dance were presented alongside fine gastronomy, in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and the Ambassador of Armenia to France. One of the highlights was an exclusive guided tasting by Bruno Scavo, former Head Sommelier of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. It marked our European debut and affirmed our desire to present Armenian savoir-faire on an international stage.

Royal Brandy integrates distinctive innovations, including apricot-wood aging and a patented hermetic cap. How do these elements contribute to the identity of the spirit?

Apricot wood embodies Armenia – its fruit and spice notes cannot be reproduced with other woods, giving Royal Brandy a unique signature. The patented closure preserves the aromas for exceptional consistency from cellar to glass. These innovations reinforce the reliability and transparency of the product, positioning it as a benchmark for craftsmanship in luxury spirits.

For those discovering Royal Brandy for the first time, how would you describe its character?

It is a meeting point between heritage and innovation. Made exclusively from Voskehat grapes sourced from three distinct Armenian regions, Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy undergoes a singular ageing process: first in oak, then in apricot wood – the Maison’s signature – before returning to oak for final refinement. This meticulous journey reveals a rich aromatic palette, where bright fruit mingles with notes of cocoa, smooth vanilla, and delicate nuttiness, unfolding into a remarkably long and elegant finish. A true distillation of terroir, it offers an authentic taste of Armenia – its spirit, its craftsmanship, and its centuries of tradition.

What originally motivated you to create Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy, and how does it differ from traditional cognac or brandy?

I wanted to produce a spirit that honored Armenia’s identity while embracing global luxury standards. Royal Brandy is a new category—unlike cognac or traditional brandy. The exclusive grape variety and innovative aging progression give it singular depth rooted in Armenian terroir. It’s a spirit designed to stand apart, not blend in.

The presentation box and tasting set are particularly sophisticated. What message did you want this packaging to convey?

For us, luxury has meaning only when it is honest and innovative. We designed a handcrafted case using sustainable materials and created patented tasting cups so clients can experience the spirit before purchasing. This approach challenges conventional codes; we want people to be guided by quality, not just status. The packaging expresses refined innovation where craftsmanship and creativity meet purpose.

How are you expanding on the values established through Cigaronne and Newline Brands Global LLC as you pursue new creative ventures?

Our brand identity and philosophy are to instill a new culture in everything we do one that blends precision, creativity, and authenticity. My father instilled in us two essential principles: never compromise on quality, and always be willing to innovate. These values guide everything we do. Today, I’m applying this philosophy beyond its original framework, exploring new territories from fine spirits to gastronomic concepts and design while keeping craftsmanship at the core. Our products are now present in more than 40 countries, but what matters most is that each creation carries a genuine expression of Armenian excellence and creativity.

How do you envision the future of Royal Brandy and the Pogossian Luxury Brand House?

Royal Brandy is the foundation. Our mission is to establish it as a new global reference in luxury spirits and a symbol of Armenia’s creative strength. The goal is to transform luxury into value-creating and innovative solutions products that justify their price through quality, substance, and vision. Ultimately, I want our House to demonstrate that Armenian luxury can honor its past while shaping the future.