The gesture demonstrated by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev during his meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's "SCO plus" format was one of the most memorable events of the gathering. Although the famous "Borjomi" water was on the table, the Azerbaijani President offered his Iranian counterpart to taste "Istisu" produced in Kalbajar.
"Taste Azerbaijani water too! There is excellent "Istisu" water here. I brought it with me," Ilham Aliyev said. Then the President poured "Istisu" himself and offered it to Pezeshkian.
This moment during the meeting is not just a sincere dialogue, but also important in terms of presenting and marketing "Istisu" not only as mineral water but also as a national brand for Azerbaijan. Moreover, there is an interesting detail in the context of the conversation: "Borjomi" has been one of the most recognized mineral water brands in the Caucasus for decades. So, what distinguishes Kalbajar's "Istisu" in comparison?
Why is Istisu compared to Borjomi?
Both "Istisu" and "Borjomi" are natural mineral waters with high mineralization, originating from the mountainous regions of the Caucasus. However, one of their main differences is the ratio of their mineral composition and their temperature when emerging from the source.
Kalbajar's "Istisu" emerges from the earth's surface naturally at a temperature of approximately 60-65 degrees. On the official website of the President of Azerbaijan, "Istisu" is presented as mineral water rich in sodium-bicarbonate and sulfate. The water also contains calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, sulfate, and other mineral elements.
This characteristic distinguishes "Istisu" not just as mineral water, but also as thermal mineral water. The source temperature of "Borjomi" is approximately 37-41 degrees. The geographical origin document of Georgia also indicates that Borjomi emerges from the earth's surface at a temperature of 34-41 degrees.
Key difference in mineral composition
"Borjomi" is known as mineral water with a predominantly hydrocarbonate-sodium composition. Its mineralization is approximately 5-7.5 grams/liter; in addition to sodium and bicarbonates, it contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other elements. "Istisu", on the other hand, is rich in sulfate in addition to sodium-bicarbonate. The mineralization in the source water is noted to reach up to 6.7 grams/liter.
Thus, a significant difference emerges between the two waters: while Borjomi's main character is determined by its sodium-hydrocarbonate content, Istisu stands out with both these components and its sulfate and high-temperature characteristics.
Which is more beneficial?
The higher concentration of certain elements in mineral water does not automatically mean it is "more beneficial" or "higher quality" than other water. The effect of water on a specific person can depend on its mineral composition, the amount consumed, and the person's health condition. However, the richness of its mineral composition, the sulfate component, and especially its high thermal properties are serious advantages that distinguish "Istisu" from "Borjomi".
In other words, if the reason "Istisu" is compared to "Borjomi" is its high mineralization, one of the main features that makes it an alternative to "Borjomi" is the unique thermal and mineral profile of Kalbajar water.
Can Istisu compete with Borjomi?
"Borjomi" is an established mineral water brand, recognized internationally and exported to more than 40 countries.
"Istisu", on the other hand, is Azerbaijani mineral water that has been brought back into production after a long break and packaged according to modern standards. The factory established in Kalbajar has an annual production capacity of over 100 million bottles. According to official information, the product is certified in accordance with AZS 216–2006, ISO 9001:2015, and ISO 22000:2018 standards.
In this regard, the issue facing "Istisu" is not just to compare its composition with "Borjomi". The main goal is to promote a unique Azerbaijani mineral water brand in the international market. President Ilham Aliyev's presentation of "Istisu" to Pezeshkian in Bishkek also carries symbolic meaning in this regard. Because presenting Kalbajar water instead of one of the famous brands on the table actually sends a message: Azerbaijan's mineral water resources are not only for local consumption but are a national treasure that can be recognized internationally.
If "Borjomi" is an example of how a mineral water brand from the Caucasus can be recognized worldwide, "Istisu" now has a greater opportunity - to become a world brand known by its own name, not as Azerbaijan's "Borjomi", while preserving its mineral and thermal properties.
Nicat Rüstəm
