As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of exploring wines from all around the world. Moldova may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but I can confidently say that Moldovan wines are indeed good and worth exploring.
Moldova has a long history of winemaking, dating back thousands of years. The country's unique terroir, with its cool climate and diverse soils, contributes to the production of wines with distinct characteristics. While Moldova is known for its red wines, there are also some impressive white wines to discover.
One of the standout regions for red wines in Moldova is Codru. This region benefits from a cooler climate, which allows for the production of elegant and age-worthy reds. The wines from Codru are often made from grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. These wines tend to have a good balance of fruitiness and acidity, making them enjoyable to drink in their youth but also capable of aging gracefully.
However, it's not just the reds that shine in Moldova. The country is also home to many aromatic white grape varieties, which produce fresh and floral wines. One of the most famous white grapes in Moldova is Fetească Albă, known for its bright acidity and floral aromas. Wines made from Fetească Albă are crisp and refreshing, perfect for warm summer days.
In addition to reds and whites, Moldova also produces sparkling and sweet wines. Sparkling wines are made using traditional methods and can rival those from more well-known sparkling wine regions. The sweet wines, often made from late-harvested grapes or through botrytis-affected grapes, offer a luscious and indulgent experience.
I have had the pleasure of tasting Moldovan wines on several occasions, and I have been impressed by their quality and diversity. One particular experience that stands out to me is when I tried a 10-year-old red wine from Moldova. The wine had developed complex flavors of dark fruits, spices, and earthiness, showcasing the aging potential of Moldovan reds.
It's important to note that the quality of Moldovan wines has been recognized internationally. Many Moldovan wineries have received awards and accolades for their products, further validating the country's winemaking prowess.
Moldovan wines are indeed good and deserve attention from wine enthusiasts. From elegant and age-worthy reds to fresh and floral whites, Moldova offers a diverse range of wines to explore. Whether you're a fan of red, white, sparkling, or sweet wines, Moldova has something to offer. So, don't hesitate to give Moldovan wines a try and discover the hidden gems of this underrated wine region.