Moldova's indigenous grape varieties

Moldova’s Indigenous Grape Varieties: A Journey of Flavours

Moldova, often referred to as the “Garden of Grapes,” is home to a rich tapestry of indigenous grape varieties. These unique vines have been cultivated for centuries in the region’s fertile soils, resulting in wines that encapsulate the essence of Moldovan terroir. In this blog post, we’ll embark on a flavourful journey to discover the aromas, tastes, and wine profiles of some of Moldova’s most treasured indigenous grape varieties.

Fetească Neagră: The Noble Red

Feteasca Neagra, the noble red grape

This red grape variety is believed to have a history spanning over 2000 years, with its roots traced back to the Prut River valley in the South-Western region of the Republic of Moldova. It is thought that winemakers first used it straight from wild plants. Currently, it ranks third among indigenous grape varieties in terms of cultivation area, covering 242.0 hectares, including 54.0 hectares registered for the production of wine products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status (based on 2019 statistics).

Aromas: Fetească Neagră, often referred to as The Black Maiden, offers a captivating bouquet of dark fruits and spice notes. On the nose, you may encounter aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries, plums, and black raisins, intermingled with subtle hints of black peppercorns, spices, cinnamon, and vanilla. Moreover, this noble red wine becomes richer and finer with age.

Taste: In the glass, Fetească Neagră is known for its elegant and well-structured palate. It boasts flavours of blackcurrants, plums, and a touch of spice. This grape variety exhibits a harmonious balance of acidity and soft tannins, making it a versatile choice for both young and aged wines.

Wine Types: Fetească Neagră is a versatile grape that can be crafted into various red and rosé wine styles. Younger wines are vibrant and fruity, while aged versions reveal complex layers of flavour.

Explore our range of Fetească Neagră wines:

Rară Neagră: The Rare Jewel

Rara Neagra, the rare jewel

This red grape variety is ancient, believed to have been cultivated in the Republic of Moldova since Geto-Dacian times, and scientific evidence indicates that Rară Neagră has a long history of cultivation in various Moldovan regions. The finest and most renowned wines from this grape have been produced in Purcari, Răscăieți, Leuntea, Talmaza, and Căușeni, all within the designated area for Ștefan Vodă Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). It ranks fourth in terms of cultivated area among indigenous grape varieties, covering 102.0 hectares, including 24.0 hectares registered for PGI wine production (based on 2019 statistics).

Aromas: Rară Neagră, known as The Rare Black, entices with a nose of red berries, blackberries, and subtle rosehip flower undertones, an aromatic grape variety that promises an intriguing olfactory experience.

Taste: In the glass, Rară Neagră offers a lively palate characterised by bright acidity and refined light to medium tannins. The flavours of redcurrants will dance on your taste buds, creating a delightful sensation.

Wine Types: Rară Neagră is often used to create varietal wines that showcase its unique character. These wines can range from light and fruity to more structured and complex. Due to its high acidity, Rară Neagră is also suitable for rosé and red sparkling wines, unique in taste and aroma.

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What about a blend of Rară Neagră and Fetească Neagră awarded GOLD at the Decanter Awards 2023?

Viorica: The Fragrant White

Viorica, the fragrant white

The white grape variety Viorica has been officially recognised as an aromatic grape variety since 1969. Viorica’s genetic heritage is a blend of two parent grapes: the maternal grape, Seibel, of French origin, and the paternal grape, Aleatico, an Italian red Muscat variety. Notably, both of these parent grapes are red varieties. Viorica, also referred to as Wiorika, is listed as a recognised wine grape variety in the International Catalogue of Grape Varieties. While Viorica grapes are predominantly cultivated in Moldova, they can also be found in neighbouring countries such as Ukraine, Russia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

In the Republic of Moldova, the cultivation of the Viorica grape variety encompasses an area of 95 hectares. This area includes 26.0 hectares that have been officially registered for the production of wine products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status (based on 2019 statistics).

Aromas: Viorica, whose name means fragrant in Latin, lives up to its title with a captivating aromatic profile. This white grape variety offers scents of acacia and jasmine flowers, apricots, yellow apples, and citrus blossoms, making it a true delight for the senses.

Taste: On the palate, Viorica wines are crisp and refreshing, featuring flavours of green apples, pears, and a subtle mineral undertone. The bright acidity and floral notes make it a perfect choice for warm summer days.

Wine Types: Viorica is primarily used to create dry white wines, as well as sparkling ones, that are known for their freshness and elegance. These wines are best enjoyed young to savour their vibrant fruitiness.

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Fetească Albă: The White Maiden

Feteasca Alba, the white maiden

Fetească Albă, or The White Maiden, is an indigenous white grape variety in Moldova, originating from Fetească Neagră, also an indigenous red grape variety. Apart from Moldova, it is also cultivated in neighbouring countries like Romania, Hungary, Ukraine, and Germany. In Moldova, it covers an extensive area of approximately 651.0 ha, of which 370.0 ha are specifically designated for the production of wine products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). Notably, it holds the top position among indigenous varieties in terms of cultivation area (based on 2019 statistics).

Aromas: Fetească Albă enchants with a bouquet of white flowers, green apples, and hints of herbs. It’s an aromatic white grape variety that promises a delicate and inviting nose.

Taste: This grape variety delivers a clean and crisp palate with flavours of green apples, citrus, and a touch of minerality. Fetească Albă wines are renowned for their refreshing acidity and easy-drinking nature.

Wine Types: Fetească Albă is used to craft a range of white wines, from light and zesty to more complex, barrel-aged versions. Its versatility allows winemakers to create wines that suit various preferences.

Explore our range of white wines.

Fetească Regală: The Royal White

Feteasca Regala, the royal white

Fetească Regală is an indigenous white grape variety that was discovered in the 1920s near Sighișoara, Romania. It is classified as a semi-aromatic variety and is the outcome of the natural crossbreeding of Fetească Albă and Grasă de Cotnari. In terms of cultivation area, it holds second position among the indigenous varieties, covering approximately 299.0 ha, of which 72.0 ha are dedicated to the production of wine products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) (based on 2019 statistics).

Aromas: Fetească Regală, or The Royal Maiden, presents an aromatic profile reminiscent of white peaches, apricots, and wildflowers, a grape variety that exudes grace and charm.

Taste: On the palate, Fetească Regală wines are bright and lively, offering flavours of stone fruits, zesty lemon, and a subtle herbal note. The refreshing acidity and pleasant finish make it a crowd-pleaser.

Wine Types: Fetească Regală is well suited to crafting dry white wines that are perfect for warm-weather sipping. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking approachable yet characterful whites.

Moldova’s indigenous grape varieties, including Fetească Neagră, Rară Neagră, Viorica, Fetească Albă, and Fetească Regală, offer a diverse spectrum of flavours and wine styles. Whether you’re drawn to the deep complexity of reds or the refreshing allure of whites, Moldova’s vinous treasures are sure to captivate your palate and enhance your appreciation of this remarkable wine-producing region. Sip, savour, and celebrate the flavours of Moldova in every glass. Cheers!

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