New findings raise concerns about Armenian cognacs sold in Russian retail chains. A recent joint study conducted by the International Association for Combating Counterfeiting and the Association of Cognac, Spirits and Alcoholic Products Producers found that almost nine in ten Armenian cognac samples obtained in Russia were not safe for consumption. These results were reported by TASS, citing the research undertaken to assess product authenticity and safety across large domestic outlets.
The study examined 200 samples representing more than 20 brands from ten major Armenian producers. Purchases were made through federal retail networks and were subsequently analyzed by an independent laboratory at the All-Russian Research Institute of Brewing, Non-Alcoholic and Wine Industries to verify composition, labeling, and potential adulteration.
Results showed violations in 177 of the tested beverages. Notably, nearly half of the samples used alcohol derived from sources other than grapes, raising questions about raw material integrity and regulatory compliance within the supply chain.
In response to these findings, the Association for Combating Counterfeiting urged action from key governmental bodies, including the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Federal Customs Service, and Rosalkogoltabak, demanding enhanced oversight of goods imported into Russia and stricter enforcement against counterfeit products.
Earlier, the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation proposed introducing criminal liability for importing goods without proper labeling. If adopted, the measure would impose fines up to 300 thousand rubles and could lead to up to three years of forced labor or imprisonment for importers of counterfeit goods.
These developments come as consumers and regulators seek to explain price dynamics in the vodka market, with debates intensifying over factors contributing to price fluctuations in the fall season.
Consumers are advised to exercise heightened scrutiny when purchasing Armenian cognac in any market. Recommendations include verifying official labeling, checking for consistent batch information, and preferring products with clear grape-based ingredient declarations and trusted distributors. Reporting suspected counterfeit products to consumer protection agencies and retail partners can help curb unsafe offerings and safeguard public health. For researchers and industry watchers, ongoing testing and transparent disclosure remain essential to ensure the safety and integrity of spirit products distributed across national borders. Authors and observers attribute current concerns to broader supply chain challenges and regulatory gaps that require coordinated, cross-border responses to protect consumers and support legitimate producers. The study’s authors emphasize that robust quality controls and rigorous enforcement can reduce the risk posed by counterfeit or adulterated beverages in the marketplace. Citations are attributed to the organizations conducting the study and to the Russian authorities reviewing the matter. Based on these sources, authorities continue to monitor supply chains and communicate updates as new information becomes available.