Moldova's National Wine Day, one of the country's most anticipated annual events, is celebrated on the weekend of October 5-6 in the heart of the capital, Chisinau, at the Great National Assembly Square.
Now in its 23rd edition, the event brings together folk music, traditional dishes, and quality wines, creating a vibrant celebration of Moldova’s rich winemaking heritage.
A Historic Tradition
The National Wine Day, organized by the National Vine and Wine Office and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, with support from USAID Moldova, has its roots in 2002. It was established to celebrate Moldova’s centuries-old winemaking traditions and to promote the country as a significant player in the global wine industry. The event is timed to coincide with the end of the grape harvest season, reinforcing the connection between the land, its produce, and the cultural identity of Moldova.
Moldovan winemaking dates back to the 15th century, and today, more than 2% of the world’s vineyards are located within Moldova’s borders. The country ranks among the top 20 wine-producing nations globally, with its wines being exported to over 70 countries. National Wine Day serves as a key platform to showcase this proud legacy, helping to further Moldova's reputation on the international stage.
Promoting Moldova’s Wine Culture
The primary goal of National Wine Day is to strengthen Moldova’s image as a premium wine destination and promote its inclusion on international wine tourism routes. The event also supports the development of the local wine sector, encourages the consumption of high-quality wine domestically, and fosters the integration of traditional Moldovan customs, culture, and winemaking techniques.
The Great National Assembly Square in Chisinau transforms into a hub of activity during the celebration, with folk dances, music, and a variety of local cuisine providing a fitting accompaniment to the impressive array of wines. In addition to the central festivities in the capital, wineries across the country open their doors, offering tastings and tours to celebrate the national holiday.
Recognition and Awards
A key highlight of the National Wine Day is the awarding of prestigious honors to those who have made significant contributions to Moldova’s wine industry. During the opening ceremony of this year’s edition, several prominent figures were recognized for their work in promoting Moldovan wines.
The Grand Prize for exceptional contributions to winemaking was awarded to the renowned Purcari Winery, celebrated for its role in preserving and promoting the traditions of Moldovan winemaking on the international stage. Mr. Andrei Gangan, chief agronomist of Sălcuța Winery and a member of the Ștefan Vodă Winery Association, was named “Winegrower of the Year,” receiving the esteemed Nicolae Guzun medal for his innovations in vine cultivation and his leadership in establishing vineyards with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status.
Additionally, Ion Luca from Casa Vinicola Luca was honored with the Petru Ungureanu medal, named after the esteemed Moldovan scientist known for his advancements in winemaking technology. Luca’s title as “Oenologist of the Year” recognizes his exceptional skill in winemaking and his dedication to producing wines of remarkable quality.
“Wine of Moldova. Unexpectedly Great.”
The 23rd edition of National Wine Day is being held under the new country brand slogan: "Wine of Moldova. Unexpectedly Great", or "Wine of Moldova. Amazingly Good." This reflects a continued effort to rebrand and elevate the image of Moldovan wines on the global market, showcasing the quality and uniqueness that has long been appreciated by wine connoisseurs worldwide.
Supported by key institutional partners, including the Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF), and with strategic backing from USAID Moldova, the National Wine Day is more than a celebration—it is a testament to the resilience and excellence of Moldova's winemaking industry.
Source: Moldpres