In the picturesque heart of Romania, tucked away from the bustling modern world, lies Domeniile Averești — a place where beauty and history intertwine to create an atmosphere that transcends time itself.
Averești is not merely a location; it's a sanctuary where the past dances with the present, where legends echo through the centuries, and where the serenity of the surroundings envelops you in a dreamlike embrace.
At Domeniile Averești, the profound connection to the land is not just understood; it's celebrated. The artisans and winemakers of Averești recognize the magic that flows through the soil, and they endeavor to capture its essence in every bottle of wine they produce.
Amidst the rolling hills and verdant vineyards of the Huși region, the legacy of winemaking stretches back to the dawn of civilization itself...
History
The history of winemaking in this region is as rich and complex as the flavors found in each glass. While written records of Huși vineyard date back to the time of Alexander the Good, Voivode of Moldavia, in 1415, archaeological discoveries suggest that grape cultivation has flourished here for over 4,000 years, with traces of grape seeds found in ancient ceramic artifacts.
But it wasn't until the 19th century that the potential of this terroir was fully realized. In 1874, the visionary nobleman Ștefan Negruzzi joined forces with the esteemed French oenologist René Faure to introduce modern viticultural practices to the region. Their efforts laid the foundation for Averești's ascent to prominence, culminating in 1900 when it became the most modern vineyard in Romania, rivaling even the esteemed domains of France.
However, like many historic estates, Averești faced its own trials and tribulations over the years. It wasn't until 2010 that a new chapter in its storied history began to unfold. With a commitment to excellence, Averești embarked on a journey to align its viticulture and winemaking practices with the highest international standards.
This renaissance of Averești required significant investment and dedication. Over 650 hectares of vineyards were replanted, a state-of-the-art winery was constructed, and a team of world-class oenologists and winegrowers was assembled. The result is a testament to the passion and vision of the Averești team.
Today, Averești Estate is once again reclaiming its position as a beacon of Romanian winemaking excellence. With a focus on crafting wines that embody the essence of the land and the spirit of its people, Averești is poised to make its mark both at home and abroad.
As you sip on a glass of Averești wine, you're not just tasting the fruits of the vine; you're experiencing a journey through centuries of history and tradition. Averești is more than just a vineyard; it's a living testament to the enduring allure of Romania's winemaking heritage.
Vineyards
At present, Domeniile Averești boasts one of the largest wine plantations in Romania, spanning 650 hectares of prime viti-cultural land. Of this, 200 ha are allocated to the Romanian grape Busuioaca de Bohotin and 40 ha to Zghihara grapes.
From the moment the grapes are harvested, a meticulous process unfolds, guided by the expertise of the winemaking team. The harvest typically begins around September 15th, extending over a period of up to four weeks. Both manual and mechanical harvesting techniques are employed, ensuring that each grape is carefully selected at the optimal stage of ripeness.
Wine Production
Averești's winery is a marvel of modern technology, divided into four primary areas:
- Production Area: With a fermentation capacity of 5 million liters, this section oversees the initial transformation of grapes into wine.
- Conditioning and Storage Area: With a vast capacity of 8 million liters, this space provides storage for wines at various stages of development.
- Bottling Area: Equipped to handle up to 5,000 bottles per hour, this area ensures efficient bottling processes to meet demand.
- Maturation Area: Dedicated to the aging process, this area houses wines in both bottles and oak barrels, allowing them to mature gracefully.
Despite the modernity of the facilities, Averești Estates remains grounded in tradition, as evidenced by a poignant ritual: each year, a bottle of the first wine produced is ceremoniously buried in the cellar—a gesture of gratitude to the land and those who nurture it.
Analyzing production figures, the 2022 harvest yielded 4.5 million liters of exceptional wine. Looking ahead to 2023, projections are optimistic, with an estimated harvest of 5 million liters, indicating steady growth and ongoing success for Domeniile Averești in its pursuit of winemaking excellence.
Wine Tasting
Averesti's wine portfolio is impressive and diverse, but I would like to focus now on its Diamond range, for its distinct character and personality.
In the heart of Podgoria Huși, one wine stands out as the quintessential embodiment of Romanian winemaking tradition—the renowned Zghihara wine (DOC-CMD Husi).
This dry white wine presents a captivating bouquet, boasting robust aromas of green apple, citrus, and subtle herbal undertones. On the palate, it delivers an exceptional experience, characterized by its intense expression and juicy texture. Notably, its elevated acidity and mineral notes contribute to a well-rounded profile, culminating in a prolonged, refreshing finish. This wine undoubtedly impresses with its complexity and balance, leaving a lasting mark on the discerning palate.
Busuioaca de Bohotin (DOC-CMD Husi), a uniquely Romanian grape variety, offers robust and aromatic wines that delight the senses.
This rosé wine offers a sensory journey that begins with a captivating aroma, bursting with fragrant basil, luscious strawberries, and delicate rose petals. Upon tasting, it enchants the palate with its refreshing character, striking a harmonious balance between acidity and alcohol. The palate is graced with lingering notes of roses, adding depth to the wine's profile. With a short yet satisfying aftertaste, this wine leaves a lasting impression of freshness and pleasure, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Busuioaca Blanc de Rosé (DOC-CMD Husi): This dry white wine presents a medium aromatic profile, offering delicate yet discernible notes of basil and roses that gently entice the senses. Upon tasting, it reveals a commendable texture on the palate, imparting a satisfying depth and complexity. Its freshness adds vibrancy to the tasting experience. The culmination is a short yet satisfying finish, characterized by its pleasantness and a lingering hint of its aromatic bouquet. Overall, this wine offers a balanced and enjoyable journey for the discerning palate.
Feteasca Neagra Barrique (DOC-CMD Husi): This exceptional dry red wine asserts itself as a standout among its peers. On the nose, notes of currants, dried plum, chocolate, and tobacco intertwine to create a complex and alluring bouquet. Upon tasting, the wine reveals itself to be medium-bodied, with a remarkable structure that speaks to its quality craftsmanship. The balance of medium alcohol and tannins lends elegance and sophistication to the palate, while its finish is nothing short of sublime. The vintage leaves a prolonged and delicate aftertaste, subtly infused with hints of vanilla.
Instead of conclusion
Domeniile Averești is more than just a destination; it's an experience—a journey of the senses that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking refuge from the chaos of modern life, Averești welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to lose yourself in its timeless beauty and discover the magic that lies within.