Settled in the heart of Iași County, Romania, lies the serene village of Bohotin, where a rare and distinctive grape variety, Busuioacă de Bohotin, finds its origins.
This indigenous Romanian grape, cultivated only in select regions across the country, boasts a rich history and a unique profile that sets it apart in the world of wine.
Origin and Characteristics
Busuioacă de Bohotin grapes are easily recognizable by their purple-reddish hue, hinting at the vibrant rosé wines they produce. Unlike any other wine variety, Busuioacă de Bohotin wines offer a delicate rosé color that embodies the essence of the grape's distinct aroma and flavor profile.
Described as a liqueur wine with a special body, Busuioacă de Bohotin exudes an unmistakable perfume that blends the fragrances of roses and basil. This aromatic complexity is rarely found in other wines, making it a truly unique experience for wine enthusiasts. The aroma is further enriched with notes of honeysuckle, ripe peaches, and occasionally a delicately bitter almond flavor, creating a harmonious balance of sugar, alcohol, and acidity.
Cultivation and Production
Currently, Busuioacă de Bohotin is cultivated in four main wine-growing regions: Bohotin (Iași County), Huși (Vaslui County), Pietroasa (Buzău County), and Tohani (Prahova County). The total area under cultivation amounts to approximately 690 hectares, according to Wines of Romania figures.
One of the largest plantations of Busuioacă de Bohotin can be found at Domeniile Averești, spanning over 105 hectares in Iași County. Here, the unique terroir and meticulous farming practices contribute to the exceptional quality of grapes used to produce these distinctive wines.
Wine Tasting
We've chosen two wines of Busuioacă de Bohotin from Domeniile Averesti portfolio for their unique and captivating aromatic profiles, which blend the distinctive notes of basil, nutmeg, and rose with fresh and fruity flavors. These wines stand out for their balance and elegance, offering a refreshing experience. Additionally, their versatility makes them perfect for various occasions, from lively gatherings with friends to intimate dinners, enhancing the enjoyment of good company and fine food.
- Domeniile Averesti, Herb Busuioacă de Bohotin DOC Huși - a semi-dry wine, with a gentle, pale pink with a slight shimmer, inviting and elegant. The bouquet is dominated by the aromatic intensity of basil, enhanced by the warm, spicy undertones of nutmeg. These intriguing scents create a complex and captivating aroma profile. On the palate, the wine reveals a fresh and vibrant taste, with subtle tones of sweet cherries and crisp apples. This harmonious blend of flavors provides a refreshing and delightful experience. The finish is delicate and lingering, with graceful notes of rose that leave a soft, floral impression.
- Domeniile Averesti, Busuioaca de Averesti DOC Husi - a semi-sweet wine, with pale pink with rosy hues, reminiscent of a delicate sunrise. Fresh and aromatic, with vibrant notes of rose petals and basil. The bouquet is inviting, offering a floral sweetness that captivates the senses. Crisp and refreshing on the palate, showcasing the ripe sweetness of citrus fruits intertwined with the floral essence of roses. There's a delightful balance between fruitiness and floral character, making each sip a journey of flavor. The finish is long and memorable, leaving a lingering impression of floral elegance and a touch of sweetness that lingers on the palate.
Pairing
Busuioacă de Bohotin wines are crafted in a range of styles, from semi-sweet to dry, each offering a nuanced expression of the grape's character. Dry variants exhibit a Provençal elegance, characterized by refined crispness, making them ideal companions for Mediterranean cuisine, seafood risottos, soft cheeses, and fine pâtés. On the other hand, demi-sweet versions pair beautifully with desserts like cheese cakes, cozonac, and burnt sugar cream, enhancing their freshness and sweetness.
Recognition and Future
Despite its limited production, Busuioacă de Bohotin has garnered significant attention and acclaim on the international stage, earning numerous awards and medals year after year. This recognition underscores its potential to captivate wine enthusiasts worldwide and establish itself as a distinguished ambassador of Romanian winemaking traditions.
As Domeniile Averești continues to champion this unique variety, their dedication ensures that Busuioacă de Bohotin wines maintain their exceptional quality and distinctiveness, inviting connoisseurs to explore the full spectrum of flavors this remarkable grape has to offer.
In conclusion, Busuioacă de Bohotin stands as a testament to Romania's rich viticultural heritage, offering not just a wine but an unforgettable journey through its aromatic bouquet, distinctive flavors, and the passionate craftsmanship that defines it.