Armenian brandy producers to stop using ‘cognac’ label

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Armenian brandy producers will no longer label their drinks “cognac”, which is an EU protected trademark geographical indication. 

Instead, “Armenian Brandy” will be registered as a geographical indication, Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan has said.

Papoyan told lawmakers during 2025 budget discussions at a committee hearing that the necessary processes for smooth and effective suspension of the usage of “cognac” label by Armenian producers is underway.

An EU support program will launch in two weeks. The EU will provide support in directions of the laboratory infrastructure requirements for quality control, development of a sustainable system of quality control, a standardized procedure for inspection and licensing and supervision of the usage of the new label and development of capacity.

Papoyan highlighted a key component of the rebranding process, whereby the Armenian Brandy will be registered as a geographical indication with concrete criteria of production and quality control that all Armenian brandy producers will adhere to.