Romania, strategically positioned at the crossroads between central and southeastern Europe, is a country of rich cultural and historical influences.
Flanked by Ukraine to the north and Bulgaria to the south, Romania exhibits a significant Roman legacy.
This Latin influence dates back to the first century AD when Emperor Trajan incorporated the region into the Roman Empire at its zenith. The Latin roots are evident in the Romanian language, which, like French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, stems from Latin.
Historical Context
Given the profound Southern European influence, it is no surprise that wine has long been a cornerstone of Romanian culture. Despite the thriving local beer and plum brandy (Tuica) industries, wine remains the nation's preferred alcoholic beverage.
Remarkably, viticulture in Romania predates the Roman era. Archaeological evidence suggests that wine production has been a continuous practice in the region for nearly 6,000 years, paralleling the ancient viticulture traditions of Georgia, across the Black Sea, and the eastern Mediterranean lands now occupied by Syria, Lebanon, and Israel.
Romania's accession to the European Union in 2007 marked a significant turning point for its wine industry. The country spent five years overhauling and refining its wine laws as part of its EU integration efforts. New regulations covering production standards and labeling have been in place for over a decade and continue to evolve. Romanian wines are classified into three quality categories: Vin de Masa (Table Wine), Vin cu Indicatie Geografica (IGP), and Denumire de Origine Controlata (AOP/DOC equivalent).
Climate
Romania's geographical location makes it an ideal wine-producing nation, occupying latitudes similar to France's key wine regions. Northern Romania, spanning the 47th parallel, aligns with southern Alsace and northern Burgundy. Meanwhile, southern Romania, positioned between the 43rd and 44th parallels, lies directly east of France's Mediterranean coast, aligning perfectly with Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon.
However, latitudinal comparisons alone do not fully capture the climatic nuances. Romania's topography and proximity to bodies of water significantly influence its climate. Unlike regions influenced by the Atlantic Ocean's moderating effects, Romania experiences a more continental climate due to its inland position. This results in hot, dry summers and cold, harsh winters, often accompanied by significant snowfall. The Black Sea coastal region offers some moderation to these climatic extremes.
Grape Varieties
Romania boasts a diverse portfolio of indigenous and international grape varieties, encompassing both vinifera and American vine species, as well as several hybrids known for their resilience in variable climates.
Local grapes:
- Fetească Regală (White) – 12,619 hectares, one of Romania’s most widely planted white grape varieties.
- Fetească Albă (White) – 12,428 hectares, a cornerstone of Romania’s white wine production.
- Fetească Neagră (Red) – 2,845 hectares, a prestigious indigenous red grape variety.
- Băbească Neagră (Red) – 2,696 hectares, one of Romania’s oldest grape varieties.
- Grasă de Cotnari (White) – 571 hectares, an indigenous white grape variety primarily used to produce sweet dessert wines.
Romania's wine industry also thrives on several well-known international grape varieties. Below are listed few of them:
- Merlot (Red) – 11,647 hectares
- Riesling (White) – 6,121 hectares
- Aligoté (White) – 5,840 hectares
- Sauvignon Blanc (White) – 5,594 hectares
- Cabernet Sauvignon (Red) – 5,359 hectares
Romanian Wine Industry
Romania holds a significant position in the global wine industry, particularly within the European Union (EU). Here are some key statistics that highlight Romania's standing:
- Vineyard Area: 187,000 hectares in 2023 (prel. OIV), 5th in the EU, following Spain, France, Italy, and Portugal
- Grape Production: 5th in the EU, after Italy, Spain, France, and Germany
- Wine Production: 4.6 million hectoliters in 2022 (OIV), 6th in the EU, following Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and Germany
- Global Ranking: Among the Top 15 in terms of vineyard area and wine production
Conclusion
Romania's indigenous grape varieties, such as Fetească Regală, Fetească Albă, Fetească Neagră, Băbească Neagră, Grasă de Cotnari or Zghihara, are integral to the country's vibrant wine culture. These local varieties not only offer a unique taste of Romania’s terroir but also highlight the country’s rich viticultural heritage.
Romania's integration of international grape varieties like Merlot, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, among others, has enriched its wine industry, providing a wide spectrum of flavors and styles. These varieties complement the indigenous grapes, enhancing Romania’s reputation as a versatile and dynamic wine-producing country.
Source: Wines of Romania