Moldovan Grape Varieties – A Quick Guide
Fetească Neagră, Rară Neagră, Viorica, Floricică – the names of Moldovan grape varieties are barely known in Switzerland, even though Moldova is home to one of Europe's oldest wine-growing regions. So that you know exactly what to expect with your next glass, we've put together a brief overview of the native varieties in our range: origin, flavour profile and the occasions they suit best.
Fetească Neagră
The «black maiden» is one of Moldova's oldest indigenous grape varieties and is closely related to the white Fetească Albă. As a red wine it shows ripe red berries, cherry and a spicy note, carried by round, harmonious tannins – a fine match for grilled or braised dishes and mature cheese. Vinified as a rosé or rosé sparkling wine, the same grape reveals its fruity, elegant side: wild strawberry, raspberry, a hint of pomegranate – ideal as an aperitif or with light summer dishes.
Discover: Novak Fetească
Neagră 2023 (red wine) · Novak ANYA
Rosé 2024 · Fetească
Neagră Rosé Sparkling Brut 2023
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Rară Neagră
A rare, indigenous red grape variety from southern Moldova with a light, delicate character. In the glass it shows sour cherry, ripe pomegranate and wild blackberry, underlined by a fine, herbal spiciness. The tannins are silky, the finish elegant and subtly spiced – a red wine for pink-roasted duck breast, braised poultry or traditional Moldovan cuisine.
Discover: Novak Rara Neagră
2021
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Saperavi
Saperavi originates in Georgia and the Caucasus, but has been cultivated for generations in sun-drenched southern Moldova (Comrat region) too, where it is now firmly established in the local vineyards. This teinturier variety produces powerful, almost impenetrably dark red wines with aromas of dark berries, plum, chocolate and cloves, carried by a dense tannin structure – an ideal match for hearty meat dishes, pot roasts and grilled fare.
Discover: Larga
Valley Saperavi 2022
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Fetească Albă
The «white maiden» is one of the region's oldest white grape varieties and closely related to the red Fetească Neagră. In our cuvée with Chardonnay it appears as an elegant sparkling wine: pale straw-yellow, fine perlage, aromas of green apple, citrus fruit and white blossom, rounded off by subtle yeast and brioche notes. Dry, fresh, with lively acidity – a versatile aperitif, excellent with seafood, sushi or light poultry.
Discover: Chardonnay
& Fetească Albă Brut 2020
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Viorica
Viorica is an aromatic white grape variety native to Moldova. It brings a captivating bouquet of white flowers, linden blossom and fresh lime zest to the glass, rounded off by a delicate peach note and an invigorating minerality. Blended with Floricică it becomes both a refreshing white wine and – with fine perlage and a hint of muscat – an aromatic sparkling wine. Both make an excellent aperitif.
Discover: ANYA
Viorica & Floricica 2024 (white wine) ·
ANYA Viorica
& Floricica Brut 2024 (sparkling wine)
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Floricică
The «little flower» is a rare indigenous white grape variety from southern Moldova (Gagauzia). Vinified as a single-varietal wine it shows an ultra-light, crystal-clear character with delicate notes of white meadow flowers, linden blossom and juicy citrus nuances, carried by delicate acidity and fine minerality. A wonderful aperitif, also recommended with light fish dishes and summer salads.
Discover: Novak Floricica
2024 (single-varietal)
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All the grape varieties presented here come from our own range and are imported directly from Moldova. Want to learn more about their origin and shipping? Our shop overview shows you our full range, sorted by red, white, rosé and sparkling wine.