A suitcase leaving Yerevan is usually heavier than the one that arrived: a bottle of brandy, a bag of dried apricots, lavash wrapped in a towel. Here are the things Armenians give each other and the ones visitors take home most often.
1. Armenian brandy
The first gift from Armenia. Grapes from the Ararat valley, double distillation, long years in oak. Choose an aged one: the difference between a young brandy and a twenty-year-old is enormous.
TUFF makes Armenian brandy aged 20 years (XO) and 30 years (Heritage). Every bottle is closed with a cap of volcanic tuff, cut by hand. The brandy gets drunk; the stone stays as a keepsake. The TUFF collection
2. Dried fruit and sujukh
In Yerevan's markets dried apricots, figs, persimmons and prunes are piled high. Try sujukh too: walnuts on a string, coated in thickened grape juice.
3. Lavash
Armenia's thin bread is on UNESCO's list of intangible heritage. Dry lavash travels well. At home, sprinkle it with water and it turns soft again.
4. Gata
A sweet layered bread filled with butter and sugar. Every region bakes it its own way. A good gift for anyone who loves home baking.
5. A carpet or kilim
At the Vernissage market in the centre of Yerevan you will find both antique carpets and new handmade ones. The choice is widest at weekends. For an antique piece, ask the seller for export papers.
6. Ceramics
Jugs, plates and cups with Armenian ornament. Some are simple market pieces, some are signed work by contemporary potters.
7. Obsidian
Armenia has plenty of volcanic glass. It is made into jewellery, prayer beads and small figures. A glossy black stone is a good reminder of a land of volcanoes.
8. Things made of tuff
Armenia's churches and half of Yerevan are built of soft volcanic tuff. It is also carved into candlesticks, small khachkars and souvenirs. You can take tuff home on a bottle too: the TUFF cap is made of it. Why the cap is made of stone
9. A duduk
The apricot-wood pipe with its deep, velvet sound is another Armenian symbol on the UNESCO list. Even if you do not play, it is a beautiful object for the home.
How to get your Armenian souvenirs home
Bottles go in checked luggage: wrap them in clothes and pack them in the middle of the suitcase. Liquids over 100 ml are not allowed in hand luggage unless bought in duty free after security.
Check the alcohol allowance for your country. In the EU, for example, you can bring in 1 litre of spirits duty-free. Pack dried fruit and sweets airtight.
TUFF gifts · Where to buy TUFF · Zvartnots duty free
Read next: Armenian brandy (Armenian cognac): a complete guide · Armenian brandy as a gift: how to choose · What to eat with Armenian brandy: 7 good pairings · How much brandy can you take out of Armenia: customs and flight rules · Brandy tasting in Yerevan: factory tours and a tasting at home
