Romania Wine

Romania has seven distinct wine-growing regions, which are further divided into 37 sub-regions.

The Transylvanian Plateau region (Podișul Transilvaniei) is located in central Romania. It is one of the main wine regions of Romania containing some of the country’s best vineyards. The sub-regions in the Transylvanian Plateau include:

• • Târnave
  • Alba
  • Aiud
  • Sebeș-Apold
  • Lechința

The Moldovan Hills also known as Hills of Moldova (Dealurile Moldovei) wine region is east of the Eastern Carpathians and spans hundreds of kilometers from the northern part of Moldova to the southern part of the province. The sub-regions in the Moldovan Hills include:

• • Cotnari
  • Iași
  • Huși
  • Zeletin
  • Colinele Tutovei
  • Dealul Bujorului
  • Iveşti
  • Nicoreşti
  • Covurlui
  • Panciu
  • Odobești
  • Cotești

The Munteniei & Olteniei Hills region (Dealurile Munteniei și Olteniei) wine region is situated in the southern Carpathians and comprises the two geographically and historically linked territories of the same name. The sub-regions in the Munteniei & Olteniei Hills include:

• • Dealurile Buzăului
  • Dealu Mare
  • Ștefănești
  • Sâmburești
  • Drăgășani
  • Dealurile Craiovei
  • Podgoria Severinului
  • Plaiurile Drâncei

The Banat Hills region (Dealurile Banatului) is a picturesque region that is renowned for its lush forests, ancient castles, and vineyards. It is the smallest wine region in the southwest of the country, and shares borders with Serbia and Hungary. The climate in this region is typically Mediterranean with influences from the Adriatic Sea. The area is known for producing exceptional sweet wines, as well as a limited number of high-quality dry white wines, which the Tarnave region is particularly famous for. The main grape varieties grown in this region include Feteasca Regala, Feteasca Alba, Welsh Riesling, Muscat Ottonel, and Sauvignon Blanc. Recently, the region has also started producing quality sparkling wines by using traditional methods. The sub-regions in the Banat Hills include:

• • Moldova Nouă
  • Recaș
  • Silagiu
  • Teremia
  • Tirol

The Crișana Hills region (Dealurile Crișanei) and the Maramureș region (Maramureșului) are located in the country’s northwest. The region is mostly known for producing grapes such as Cadarca and Mustoasa de Maderat. The sub-regions in the Crișana Hills and Maramureș regions include:

• • Miniș-Măderat
  • Diosig
  • Șimleu Silvaniei
  • Valea lui Mihai

The Dobruja Hills aka Dobrogea Hills (Colinele Dobrogei) wine region is situated in the southeastern part of Romania. It is surrounded by the Danube River to the west and north, the Danube Delta, and the Black Sea to the east. The sub-regions in the Dobruja Hills include:

• • Sarica-Niculițel
  • Istria-Babadag
  • Murfatlar

The Danube Terraces (Terasele Dunării) wine region extends along the lower banks of the Danube, towards the Bulgarian border. Due to its terrain, grape type, and winemaking methods, the region is one of the most diverse. The sub-regions in the Danube Terraces include:

• • Greaca
  • Ostrov

The most known Romanian wine grape variety for red wines is Fetească neagră, originating in the Uricani, Iași wine region. It produces ″dry, demi-dry, or sweet wines, with an alcohol content of 12-14%, a deep red color with ruby shades, and a black currant flavor, which becomes richer and smoother with aging.”

The most known Romanian wine grape varieties for white wines are Fetească albă, Crâmpoșie and Fetească regală. Feteasca albă and Fetească regală produce dry or semi-dry wines with rich floral aromas. They have a moderate alcohol content (11.5 to 12%) and moderate acidity. Crâmpoșia produces fresh and fruity wines with moderate alcohol content and pronounced acidity.

Among the Romanian aromatic wine grape varieties, the most appreciated and cultivated are Tămâioasă Românească and Busuioacă de Bohotin.

Red Grapes

Fetească Neagră is undoubtedly one of the shining stars in the Romanian wine industry. With its origins rooted in the Uricani, Iași wine region, this red grape variety has garnered immense popularity both locally and internationally.

Known for its ability to produce a range of wines – from dry to demi-dry or even sweet – Fetească Neagră showcases a deep red color with captivating ruby shades. Its allure lies not only in its visual appeal but also its distinctive black currant flavor, which only becomes richer and smoother with aging.

Băbească Neagră, another red grape variety found in Romania, may not be as well-known as Fetească Neagră, but it certainly holds its own when it comes to delivering exceptional wines. Originating from the Moldova region, Băbească Neagră has gained a loyal following among wine enthusiasts who appreciate its unique character and bold flavors.

This grape variety produces full-bodied wines with a rich, velvety texture. Its deep red color is accompanied by intense aromas of dark berries and spices, creating a sensory experience that captivates the senses. Băbească Neagră wines are known for their complexity and depth, often showcasing notes of black cherry, plum, and pepper.

White Grapes

Fetească Albă is a white grape variety commonly used to produce high-quality dry white wines. It is characterized by strong acidity, a pleasant structure, and exceptional minerality, with distinct white flowers, citrus, and hay notes.

Feteasca Regală is a recently discovered white grape variety in Romania. It is grown in every vineyard in the country and is typically used to produce dry, youthful, aromatic white wines with strong scents of green and citrus apples. The high acidity of this local variety makes it ideal for crafting distinctive sparkling wines and beverages.

Crâmpoșia is an old white grape variety that was grown before the phylloxera epidemic and is now emblematic of the Drăgășani region. It can be used to make either a varietal wine or a blend. The grape is distinguished by its acidity, freshness, and minerality. It is best enjoyed when young and has delightful aromas of pears, citrus fruits, and yellow cherries.

Aligoté is a lesser-known white grape variety that has recently started gaining recognition in Romania. It produces wines with a crisp and refreshing character, often displaying notes of green apple, lemon zest, and a hint of minerality. Aligoté wines are known for their vibrant acidity, making them perfect for pairing with seafood or light dishes. While not as widely cultivated as other grape varieties, Aligoté offers a unique taste experience that is worth exploring for wine enthusiasts seeking something different.

Tămâioasa Românească is a variety of grape that is famous for its association with the warm hospitality of Romania. It is a type of Muscat grape adopted in the Romanian wine-making region with great success. This aromatic grape is known for its unique fragrance of acacia flowers, honeycomb, and subtle basil undertones. Tămâioasa Românească is used to make a variety of white dessert wines that have exceptional aging potential.

Muscat Ottonel, also known as simply Muscat in some regions, is a highly aromatic white grape variety that thrives in the Romanian climate. This grape is celebrated for its intoxicating floral aromas of orange blossom, jasmine, and ripe apricots. Muscat Ottonel produces wines that are characteristically light-bodied with a touch of sweetness and vibrant acidity. These qualities make it an excellent choice for producing both still and sparkling wines that are perfect for enjoying on warm summer days or pairing with spicy dishes.

Grasă de Cotnari is a unique grape variety that originates from the Cotnari wine region in Romania. This indigenous grape thrives in the fertile soils of the region, producing wines with exceptional sweetness and complexity. Grasă de Cotnari wines are known for their luscious honeyed flavors, balanced by a vibrant acidity that keeps them refreshing and enjoyable. These wines are often aged in oak barrels, adding layers of complexity and depth to their flavor profile.

Galbenă de Odobești is a lesser-known grape variety from Romania that deserves recognition for its unique qualities. This white grape variety thrives in the Odobești region, where it benefits from the warm climate and fertile soils. Galbenă de Odobești wines are characterized by their vibrant acidity and delicate flavors of citrus fruits, white flowers, and hints of minerality. These wines are often enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif or paired with light seafood dishes, showcasing their crispness and elegance. While Galbenă de Odobești may not be as famous as other Romanian grape varieties, it certainly holds its own in terms of taste and quality.