In April 2016, amidst the bustling atmosphere of the Moscow Building and Construction Fair, destiny orchestrated a serendipitous encounter between two individuals from diverse backgrounds—Vladimir, a Moldovan entrepreneur entrenched in the realms of furnishing, design, and hardware, and Claudio, an Italian export manager representing a network of companies within the same sector.
United by their innate curiosity, authenticity, and openness, Vladimir and Claudio swiftly formed a bond that transcended mere acquaintanceship. Their collaboration burgeoned within days, fueled by their shared passion for exploration and discovery. As avid travelers traversing the globe for business, they witnessed firsthand the vast diversity of cultures and traditions, each leaving an indelible mark on their journey.
It was on a memorable evening in Almaty, Kazakhstan, during an event organized by the Italian Trade Agency in September 2017, that Claudio's passion for wine ignited a spark of inspiration. A chance encounter with a remarkable Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand, followed by a tasting of a Kazakh red wine produced in partnership with an Italian winemaker, set the stage for what would become a transformative venture.
Winery Project
Christmas of the same year marked a pivotal moment as Vladimir revealed an idea that had been germinating in his mind. Thus, the seeds of The I'M Winery Project were sown—a vision to marry Italian winemaking expertise with Moldova's millennia-old wine tradition.
In April 2018, amidst the vibrant ambiance of the Salone del Mobile Fair in Milan, Vladimir and Claudio charted their course with two promising Italian winemakers, Davide from Valtellina and Lorenzo with extensive experience in Tuscany, Sicily, and beyond. Embarking on their journey on July 19, 2018, they converged in Chisinau, Moldova, ready to delve into the intricacies of winemaking.
Their quest led them on a journey across Moldova, exploring vineyards, wine cellars, and cultivating relationships with local suppliers. Months of meticulous research and collaboration ensued, culminating in the selection of the ideal land and partners to bring their vision to fruition.
In October 2018, during Moldova's National Wine Day, the final piece of the puzzle fell into place—the birth of the winery's name, I'm, symbolizing the fusion of Italian and Moldovan heritage. With a minimalist yet elegant logo designed by Super Bruno, the project's essence was encapsulated—Italian identity intertwined with Moldovan tradition.
Curent status
Spanning 23 hectares of pristine land, the winery boasts vineyards that are a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Currently cultivating varieties like Feteasca Alba, Feteasca Neagra, Rara Neagra, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, the winery also embraces the native Viorica grape, adding a touch of local flair to its repertoire.
However, the journey doesn't end within the confines of their estate. Embracing the spirit of collaboration, the winery also partners with local grape suppliers, ensuring that only the finest produce finds its way into their bottles. This commitment to quality and authenticity is a testament to their reverence for the land and its bountiful offerings.
To date, the winery's production is approximately 40,000 bottles of exquisite wine. However, this is merely the beginning of the journey towards unlocking the full potential of our winery. With careful planning, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, it was identified a staggering potential to expand the production to 200,000 bottles per year.
Wine Tasting
Each wine in our selection has been carefully chosen to showcase the excellence of I'M Winery winemaking, inviting you to embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation. Each bottle has been meticulously chosen to offer a unique and unforgettable journey through Moldovan and Italian winemaking traditions, inviting you to explore the diversity and complexity of both countries rich viticultural heritage.
- Feteasca Alba (2022): A dry white wine that embodies elegance and freshness. On the nose, be greeted by the inviting aromas of delicate floral notes intertwined with the crisp essence of green fruits, reminiscent of freshly picked apples and pears. The wine captivates with its easy-drinking nature, offering a pleasurable and refreshing sensation. The palate is greeted with a burst of freshness, complemented by a medium acidity that enhances the wine's overall crispness. The velvety aftertaste leaves a lasting impression of refinement. Notes of tropical fruits emerge, adding a touch of exotic allure to the wine's elegant character.
- Feteasca Neagra (2021): A wine of remarkable complexity, strength, and richness. On the nose, be swept away by the enchanting aromas of ripe cherries and succulent currants. On the palate, experience the wine's commanding presence, characterized by medium tannins that provide a well-defined structure, showcasing the interplay between the bold fruitiness of cherries and currants and subtle undertones of spice and earthiness. The velvety texture caresses the palate, leading to a lingering and gratifying finish that leaves a lasting impression of elegance and refinement.
- Primul Vis (2021): A captivating dry red wine meticulously crafted from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Rara Neagra, and Feteasca Neagra grapes. Strong notes of black and ripe cherries dominate, intermingled with subtle hints of sour cherries that add a delightful twist to the bouquet. The wine boasts a robust structure that commands attention, with bold and complex characteristics. The high tannins provide a firm backbone, adding depth and texture to the wine's profile while contributing to its impressive aging potential.
We're left with a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences offered by our trio of exceptional wines. Together, these wines epitomize the essence of Moldovan terroir - crafted with passion, expertise, and a deep appreciation for the land.
In conclusion
As the project gained momentum, it became evident that The I'm Winery Project was more than just a winery; it was a testament to the enduring friendship between Italy and Moldova, a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange. With each bottle produced, it serves as a tribute to the rich tapestry of human connections and the transformative power of shared dreams.