Agri Astragalus Honey Product Description and Distinguishing Features: Ağrı Geven Honey is a type of monofloral honey that is filtered and sourced from the geven plants native to the region. Its color can range from a light yellow to an orange hue, with a thick texture. Despite its slight viscosity, it offers a taste that provides a warming sensation in the throat when consumed. This honey is produced by the Caucasian bees (Apis mellifera caucasia). The longer tongues of these bees allow them to easily access nectar from the plants. The long-standing tradition of beekeeping with Caucasian bees in the area has allowed this particular bee species to adapt perfectly to the local conditions. Ağrı Geven Honey is primarily made up of at least 50% geven (Astragalus) pollens, with secondary components including at least 3% Asteraceae pollens, and a minimum of 1% pollens from the Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, and Apiaceae plant families. The proline content in this honey is at least 400 mg/kg, while the moisture content does not exceed 18%. The low moisture level is a result of the deep valleys in the Ağrı province and the high temperatures during the summer months. Additionally, the HMF (hydroxymethylfurfural) value remains under 30 mg/kg. Ağrı Province is situated in the Upper Murat Basin within the Eastern Anatolia Region. This area, known for its significant elevation differences, is composed of three main geomorphological features: mountainous and hilly regions, plains, and valleys. As one moves from the plains toward the surrounding areas, the elevation gradually rises, and the valleys become deeper. Even over short distances, there are considerable elevation changes, as the plains coexist with high mountainous and hilly terrains. In many locations, the elevation difference between the valley floors and the surrounding mountain areas exceeds 1000 meters. Therefore, the mountains that encircle the plains in Ağrı not only define the landscape but also contribute to forming a basin-like structure in the region. The majority of the plains are surrounded by mountains, and the flatlands have an average elevation of around 2000 meters. A large portion of Ağrı's landscape consists of pastures and grazing areas, which significantly enhance the quality of its honey. Furthermore, the low level of agricultural activity in the cultivated zones positively impacts the preservation of bee populations. Geographically, Ağrı Province is ideal for beekeeping during the summer, offering a consistent supply of green and flowering plants, depending on the elevation. The microclimates created by the region's topographical variations and the diverse flora resulting from elevation differences help extend the beekeeping season. The region boasts a rich floral diversity, with the elevation-dependent blooming of plants in the highlands and mountains, as well as an abundance of native flowers, making it highly suitable for beekeeping. The temperature differences between the valleys and plains with significant elevation changes, as well as the mountainous and hilly regions, are noticeable over short distances. This results in varying vegetation cycles, allowing perennially flowering plants to thrive during both the spring and summer. Beekeepers in the region move their hives multiple times throughout the flowering periods, starting in the valley bottoms during the spring and then relocating to the high plateaus and mountain slopes during the peak of summer. The region's topography and microclimates play a key role in extending the beekeeping season. Ağrı Geven Honey is harvested only once each year, between August 15 and September 10, from the upper hive box. Harvesting from the lower part (brood chamber) of the hive is not carried out. The Astragalus (geven) genus, which is characteristic of the phytogeographical zone in Ağrı Province, is abundant in the region. Species such as Astragalus ssp. and Artemisias spp. are well-established herbaceous plants known for their strong resistance to erosion and well-developed root systems. Numerous species of Astragalus (geven) grow prolifically throughout the Ağrı region. In areas with dense growth of geven, the bees collect nectar and pollen from the geven flowers to produce geven honey. A unique feature of Ağrı Geven Honey is the presence of pollens from the Apiaceae family, which has adapted to the region's geographical conditions, in addition to the pollens and nectar from the geven plants. Beekeeping is a major source of livelihood in Ağrı, and the traditional honey festivals and tasting events held annually after the harvest have become important social gatherings, bringing together both the beekeepers and the local community.