Romania is divided into seven distinct regions. All 7 of Romania's historical regions produce wine. Many countries have wine regions, but there are few wine-producing countries which can say that the entire country is a wine-producing region.
These regions are located in various climatic conditions, each with unique terroirs and microclimates that influence the characteristics of the wines produced there. It's fascinating how Romania's wine industry has evolved over the centuries, with different regions specialising in different styles and varieties.
Romania is in a continental climate zone, with hot summers and long, dry autumns. This country is geographically positioned at the same latitude as France. As a result, it is not surprising that the climate here is ideal for producing not only local native grapes, but also vines of classic French varietals. They were imported to the region following the phylloxera pandemic at the end of the nineteenth century.
Nestled at the heart of Romania, the Transylvanian Plateau is surrounded by the towering peaks of the country's highest mountains.
Beyond its captivating beauty, this region can pride itself with a very rich history. Transylvania is a melting pot of diverse ethnicities, notably Hungarians and Germans, whose influence can be found throughout the local culture, including winemaking.
Transylvania hosts five DOC wine regions. Each area has its own distinct winemaking style, with a heritage dating back over two millennia. The vineyards, nestled between 175 and 544 metres above sea level, enjoy a gentle slope of 15% to 30%, making it easy to soak in the sun in the warm south and west-facing orientations.
Noteworthy for its crisp whites and effervescent sparklers, Transylvania's wines bear the imprint of its cool climate and the mineral-rich soils sourced from the surrounding mountains. It's here, amidst this breathtaking landscape, that the esteemed Fetească Regală grape finds its origin.
As part of European wine-growing Zone B, along with Baden in Germany, Austria, the French regions of Alsace, Champagne, Loire and more, Transylvania garners international acclaim, having some of Romania's most highly rated vineyards.
This is Romania's largest wine region, known for its exceptional wine production of a diverse array of indigenous grape varieties. This fertile land is the cradle of numerous prized Romanian grapes, including the illustrious Fetească Neagră, a top-tier red grape.
The Moldavian Hills wines range from crisp whites to indulgent rosés, and from dry to lusciously sweet or brut and extra brut sparkling varieties. Red wines, predominantly dry, captivate with their depth of flavour and character.
Situated in the eastern part of Romania, the region has an average elevation of 140 metres and reaches a maximum height of 300 metres. Classified within European wine-growing Zone C1, together with the French regions of Bordeaux, Burgundy, Provence, and some areas in the far north of Italy, Spain, and more, it enjoys a warm climate ideally suited for winemaking.
Divided into ten distinct wine areas with DOC classification the Moldavian Hills are a testament to Romania's rich winemaking tradition
This region is located in the southwestern corner of Romania. While small in size, it packs a punch when it comes to winemaking.
With just two DOC classification areas — Banat and Recas — this compact region punches above its weight, thanks to its exceptional terroir and favourable climate. Foreign investments, aimed at crafting high-quality wines, have propelled its wine industry to new heights.
Influenced by the nearby Danube River and its proximity to the Mediterranean, the region benefits from a climate perfectly suited to viticulture. Here, a diverse range of grape varieties thrives, catering to both local consumption and an important export market.
Located in the charming northwest corner of Romania, winemaking in this region reflects a delightful blend of Western European flair. Honouring time-honoured traditions, the wines of Crisana and Maramures once graced the tables of Austro-Hungarian emperors.
Benefiting from the temperate climate of Central Europe, this area nurtures a diverse array of grape varieties, from versatile table wines to exquisite vintage selections. Among its renowned grapes are the Cadarca and Mustoasa de Maderat, lending their unique character to the region's vinicultural tapestry.
In this region, two natural elements reign supreme: heat and drought, creating the perfect environment for crafting exceptional Romanian wines.
Delve into the rich winemaking history of Muntenia & Oltenia, where ancient evidence of winemaking, dating back over 2000 years, speaks to the enduring tradition that thrives to this day.
Today, you can witness the revival of old vineyards, once seized unjustly by communist forces, now reclaimed by their rightful owners. Simultaneously, a wave of new wineries has emerged, breathing fresh life into the landscape.
The region's renowned Romanian wines, particularly its bold reds crafted from indigenous grapes that capture the essence of Muntenia & Oltenia terroir.
This region has nice areas with a DOC certification. And yes, this is where the legendary Dracula once lived!
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Romania, this region is surrounded by the waters of the Danube River to the west and north, and the Black Sea to the east.
In this sun-drenched climate with minimal rainfall, soft reds and rosés thrive in the three DOC classification areas — Babadag, Sarica Niculiţel, and Murfatlar. These regions show influences dating back to ancient times when Greeks and Romans cultivated vines in the Black Sea harbours and fortifications.
Benefiting from a consistent climate year-round, Dobrogea's proximity to the Black Sea moderates temperatures and dries the soil, creating ideal conditions for crafting high-quality wines.
A picturesque stretch along the lower stretches of the Danube, this is a very diverse region due to its unique blend of terrain, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques. This region only has two DOC categorization regions.
Embracing the warmth of its climate and the sandy soils that nurture its vines, numerous independent vineyards craft exceptional wines, each with its own signature style.
Discovering the perfect wine to complement your favourite dishes doesn't require a fancy event or a sommelier's expertise—it's something you can enjoy and experiment with anytime, anywhere.
The answer lies in its unrivalled blend of history, innovation, and sheer passion for the craft. With a winemaking legacy spanning over 4000 years, Romania has established itself as a powerhouse in the global wine industry.
Romania is divided into seven distinct regions. All 7 of Romania's historical regions produce wine. Many countries have wine regions, but there are few wine-producing countries which can say that the entire country is a wine-producing region.
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start planning your Christmas dinner menu and pairing it with the perfect wines. This blog post will explore 6 exquisite Romanian wines from Aurelia Visinescu, a renowned Romanian wine producer, that will complement your festive meal. These wines are delicious and expertly crafted, making them the...
