Moldova’s annual National Wine Day event in the nation’s capital, Chisinau, has been honored by the prestigious Wine Travel Awards in the category of Wine Tourism Events, specifically recognized as the "Magnet of the Region."
The accolade was presented during the Wine Travel Awards ceremony on May 21 at the London Wine Fair.
The celebration of Moldovan wines was showcased at the Wine Travel Awards booth and highlighted during the Walk-Around Tasting at the 2023–2024 Winners' Awards ceremony. Renowned Moldovan wineries, including Château Purcari, Château Vartely, Radacini Wines, and Apriori Wine, presented their finest selections.
Acknowledging Moldova’s Growing Influence
The recognition of Moldova’s National Wine Day at the Wine Travel Awards underscores the event’s significance and its growing influence in the global wine tourism landscape. Organized annually during the first weekend of October by the Moldovan Office of Vine and Wine, the event has evolved into a vital attraction, drawing enthusiasts from around the world to experience Moldova's rich wine heritage.
"The National Wine Day has definitely become a magnet for the region, allowing visitors from Moldova and elsewhere to taste a massive range of increasingly impressive wines and to meet their producers," said Robert Joseph, wine expert and consultant.
International Promotion and Partnerships
Awareness of Moldova’s National Wine Day festival is bolstered by international promotion of the Wine of Moldova country brand, as well as through partnerships with the tourism industry and other related sectors. National Wine Day is unique, with Moldova being the only country where the Parliament officially declares this celebration. “National Wine Day has established itself as the largest and most attractive tourist and wine festival in our country and in Eastern Europe for over ten years, and the wine sector continues to develop the event,” confirmed Ștefan Iamandi, director of the National Office of Vine and Wine.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
This year’s recognition not only highlights Moldova’s exceptional wines but also its burgeoning role in global wine tourism. The Wine Travel Awards team extends an invitation to wine enthusiasts worldwide to join the vibrant celebration and discover the hospitality and charm of Moldova. "Ten years ago, we revised the concept of National Wine Day to enhance the customer experience, incorporating visits to wineries and regions, wine school sessions, and elements of our cultural heritage. Attendees can look forward to an immersive experience that includes scenic vineyard tours, winery visits, and exclusive tastings of award-winning wines,” stated Diana Lazar, Wine Industry Director at the USAID RCRA project, which has been providing strategic assistance for the last decade.
A Must-Visit Destination for Wine Lovers
With its picturesque landscapes and centuries-old winemaking traditions, Moldova is becoming a must-visit destination for adventurous wine lovers and travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. The National Wine Day, attracting 110,000 visitors in two days of the festival, takes place every year at the beginning of October. The 2024 edition is scheduled for October 5-6. Moldova is connected by direct flights to more than thirty cities, including Vienna, Paris, Frankfurt, London, Dublin, Warsaw, Milan, Rome, Verona, Venice, Barcelona, Bucharest, Istanbul, and Brussels.
The honor bestowed by the Wine Travel Awards highlights the exceptional quality and cultural richness of Moldova’s wine industry, inviting the world to celebrate its vibrant National Wine Day and explore the treasures of Moldovan viticulture.