Spice level warning — Basturma is not what I expected

I underestimated Basturma. The warmly herbal description didn't prepare me for the reality. lamb shoulder brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Armenia claims the world's oldest winery dating to 4100 BC and has a deep wine-making heritage. The a traditional home holiday table setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. Armenian cognac cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.