The Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2024, one of the most prestigious wine competitions in the world, showcased an impressive array of wines from around the globe.
This year, Romania emerged as a significant player, securing numerous accolades that highlight the country's rich winemaking heritage and its potential on the international stage.
Romanian wineries took home a remarkable number of awards, including several coveted gold medals, affirming their place among the world's elite wine producers.
Romania's Impressive Performance
At the 2024 DWWA, Romanian wines garnered a total of 112 awards, spanning various categories. Among these, 3 were gold medals, 27 were silver, and 100 were bronze. This impressive haul underscores the diverse and high-quality offerings from Romanian vineyards, reflecting both traditional craftsmanship and innovative winemaking techniques.
Spotlight on Gold Medal Winners
Strunga Winery - Barrique Feteasca Neagra 2022
From the Moldova region of Iași, Strunga Winery's Barrique Feteasca Neagra 2022 stands out with a stellar 95-point rating. This red wine, aged in barriques, captivates with its complex bouquet of dark berries, spices, and a hint of vanilla. Its robust tannin structure and balanced acidity make it a quintessential expression of the Feteasca Neagra grape, a flagship of Romanian viticulture.
Avincis - Cuvée Valerius Alutus Primus 2020
Hailing from the Muntenia & Oltenia region, Avincis's Cuvée Valerius Alutus Primus 2020 is another gold medalist, also scoring 95 points. This wine, from the renowned Dragasani area, blends local and international varietals to create a symphony of flavors, including ripe red fruits, subtle oak, and earthy undertones. Its elegance and depth are a testament to the exceptional terroir of the region.
Cotnari - Busuioaca De Bohotin 2023
Cotnari, a historic winery in the Moldova region, captured a gold medal with its Busuioaca De Bohotin 2023, earning 95 points. This rosé wine is celebrated for its aromatic profile, featuring rose petals, strawberries, and a touch of spice. The delicate balance of sweetness and acidity showcases the unique qualities of the Busuioaca de Bohotin grape, making it a refreshing and versatile choice.
The Appeal of Romanian Wines
The gold medal winners at the DWWA 2024 highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of Romanian wines. Each region contributes its unique terroir to the wines, creating distinct and memorable flavor profiles. From the bold and complex reds of Muntenia & Oltenia to the aromatic and elegant rosés of Moldova, Romanian wines are increasingly gaining international recognition for their excellence.
Conclusion
Romania's success at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2024 is a testament to the country's rich winemaking tradition and its innovative approaches to viticulture. The gold medal winners, such as Strunga Winery’s Barrique Feteasca Neagra 2022, Avincis’s Cuvée Valerius Alutus Primus 2020, and Cotnari’s Busuioaca De Bohotin 2023, exemplify the pinnacle of Romanian winemaking.