We know no one likes reading long texts. That's why we've summarized here all you need to know about Romania, its traditions, and more importantly, the wine. Please bear with us as this is an interesting read, especially if you're contemplating whether you should try Romanian wine or not. Let's see where your mind is at once you're done reading?
What is Romania?
Romania is an Eastern European country known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. With its stunning Carpathian Mountains and legendary Transylvanian castles, Romania offers breathtaking scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities. The capital city, Bucharest, and other cities like Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara showcase a blend of architectural styles and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Romania's cultural heritage shines through traditional folk customs, music, dance, and delicious cuisine. The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the painted monasteries of Bucovina and the Danube Delta. Romania's affordability, warm hospitality, and old customs make it an increasingly appealing destination for travelers seeking historical landmarks, natural wonders, and a glimpse into a rich culture.
Wine History of Romania: The Famous Dacian Wine
Romania often goes unnoticed compared to wine giants like France and Italy. However, its favorable location near the Black Sea and a history that dates back 6000 years make it a serious contender in the world of wine. In ancient times, Romania, then known as Dacia, produced exceptional wines that were highly sought after by neighboring and distant lands. The fame of Dacian wines even led to a drastic measure taken by King Burebista, who ordered the destruction of all vineyards to protect their prized wine culture and avoid it falling into enemy hands.
In the 19th century, Romania embraced new vine varieties from France, Germany, and Italy, alongside native grapes such as cramposie de dragasani, feteasca neagra, babeasca, and more, resulting in a diverse selection of wines. The inter-war period introduced a refreshing trend called the "spritzer," combining wine with sparkling mineral water, reflecting Romania's creativity and abundant natural resources. From 1948 to 1989, quantity often overshadowed quality in Romanian wines, but they still managed to win prestigious international awards.
Since the liberalization of Romania's economy in 1989, the country's wine industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. Passionate winemakers have taken the reins, focusing on excellence and redefining the role of research institutes in the sector. Today, Romania is experiencing a wine renaissance, offering a wide range of grape varieties and an unwavering commitment to quality. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate the finer things in life, exploring Romania's wine scene promises to be a rewarding journey of discovery.
Romanian Food: Taste the Tradition
Romanian cuisine is a blend of influences from Turkey, Hungary, Slavic regions, and Austria, while still being distinctly Romanian. The traditional food reflects the country's history and connection to the land. One iconic dish is sarmale, cabbage rolls stuffed with spiced pork and rice, often served with sour cream. Sarmale is considered the national dish and is enjoyed during festive occasions. Another popular food is mititei, grilled sausages made from beef, pork, and spices, often served with mustard and bread.
Stews, known as tocanita, are a staple in Romanian cuisine. They are hearty dishes made with pork, beef, or chicken, slow-cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. Tocanita is typically served with polenta, a cornmeal dish. Romania is also known for its fish dishes, particularly carp. Grilled carp, called salata de boeuf, is a common choice, seasoned with salt and served with mixed vegetables and potatoes.
Romanian cuisine offers a variety of soups, including ciorba, a sour soup with vegetables, meat, and sour cream. Mamaliga, a cornmeal-based polenta, is a traditional side dish. Overall, the traditional food of Romania showcases a rich culinary heritage, combining flavors from various cultures and highlighting the country's unique gastronomy.
Romanian Wine: From Tradition to Glass
Now to the matter at hand. With its rich history and unique production methods, Romanian wine offers a delightful experience for both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. One fascinating aspect is the variety of indigenous grape vines grown in the country. One such vine is Feteasca Neagra, a red grape that produces a complex and aromatic wine with hints of blackberries and spices. Another standout is Grasa de Cotnari, a white grape that thrives in the Cotnari region, resulting in a luscious, sweet wine known for its honeyed flavors.
The land where Romanian wine is cultivated adds to its allure. The vineyards cover an impressive total land area of over 200,000 hectares (494,211 acres), creating a sprawling and diverse wine region. The Dealu Mare region, also known as the "Napa Valley of Romania," is particularly renowned for its vineyards. In 2020, Romanian wines gained international recognition, winning numerous prestigious awards. They secured an impressive tally of 40 gold medals at various international wine competitions, showcasing the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Romanian winemakers.
What sets Romanian wine apart is the traditional production methods passed down through generations. Many winemakers still employ traditional techniques, such as using wooden barrels for aging and fermenting wines. This approach imparts a distinct flavor profile to the wines, creating a sensory experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. Additionally, some wineries in Romania practice organic and sustainable farming methods, ensuring that the wines are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
Sip and Savor: Why Romanian Wine Deserves Your Attention
We didn't talk about Dracula on purpose, but did you know he was a big fan of Romanian wine too? So why not follow in his footsteps? We mean drinking wine, not blood.
So to sum it all up, Romanian wine offers a delightful journey for wine lovers seeking something unique and undiscovered. From the diverse range of indigenous grape vines to the picturesque vineyards and the traditional production methods, there is much to explore and enjoy. What are you waiting for? Grab a glass of Cramposie or a Feteasca Neagra and embark on a tasting adventure that will surprise and delight your palate.
You can check out our selection of wines here.