Select Page

Quality and native grapes of Romania webinar

Quality and native grapes of Romania webinar

Romania produces more wine than New Zealand, yet it is little known beyond its borders for anything more than price-fighting Pinot in all shades. It has so much more to offer in terms of variety and quality, so this webinar took a look at what producers can do and whether native grapes play a role in their story. A panel of four speakers from Romania were moderated by myself, Caroline Gilby MW (author of The wines of Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova ) – Cristiana Stoica (owner of Avincis Estate), Oliver Bauer (owner of Crama Bauer and winemaker at Prince Știrbey), Dan Balaban (owner of Davino Winery) and Philip Cox (co-owner of Cramele Reca Ș ). All the speakers brought different perspectives and insights and discussions were wide ranging, covering topics including: native grapes and which if any has the potential to be a flagship; the significance of Pinot Noir; the impact of privatisation following the previous era; domestic market trends and why Romania is a net importer of wine. Other subjects included the challenges of exports to various markets including Western Europe and the US; organic and sustainable viticulture and its feasibility; investments and the challenges of developing a promotional strategy to raise global awareness. Discussions also touched on climate change and availability of labour, local winemakers and what political/governmental support the industry would find helpful.

Caroline Gilby MW