Viticulture & Winemaking
The country's emblematic sector
Wine is the emblematic sector of the Moldovan economy. Moldova has one of the largest vineyard areas relative to its territory in the world, and wine is among its main export products. The sector includes large and small wineries, grape growers and a fast-developing wine tourism.
Viticulture and winemaking are the emblematic branch of the economy of the Republic of Moldova and the best known abroad. The country is among the first in the world in terms of vineyard area relative to territory, with around 140,000 hectares of vineyards and a winemaking tradition thousands of years old.
The regions and the varieties
Moldova has three wine regions with Protected Geographical Indication: Codru, in the centre, recognised for its white and sparkling wines; Ștefan Vodă, in the south-east, home of the well-known Negru de Purcari; and Valul lui Traian, in the south-west, with full-bodied reds and aromatic whites. Alongside international varieties, native varieties such as Fetească Neagră, Fetească Albă, Rară Neagră and Viorica are grown.
Renowned wineries and export
Moldovan wineries are known internationally: Cricova and Mileștii Mici, the latter holder of the Guinness record for the largest wine collection in the world, alongside Purcari, Castel Mimi and many others. Wine remains one of the country's core export products, promoted under the national brand Wine of Moldova on markets in the European Union, Asia and America.
Key areas
Explore Moldovan wine in depth: wineries, wine regions and grape varieties.
Worth knowing
- One of the highest vineyard densities in the world
- An important export product
- 3 regions with PGI
Where to stay nearby
Hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs in the area, on one map — prices compared across Booking, Airbnb and other platforms.
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Frequently asked questions
What you need to know
How large is Moldova's wine sector?
The country is among the world leaders in vineyard area relative to its territory, with around 140,000 hectares of vines and a winemaking tradition thousands of years old. Wine remains one of its core export products.
What are Moldova's wine regions?
There are three regions with Protected Geographical Indication: Codru in the centre, known for whites and sparkling wines; Stefan Voda in the south-east, home of Negru de Purcari; and Valul lui Traian in the south-west, with full reds and aromatic whites.
Which wineries are worth visiting in Moldova?
Cricova and Milestii Mici, the latter holding the Guinness record for the world's largest wine collection, along with Purcari, Castel Mimi and many others. The wines are promoted under the national brand Wine of Moldova.
Discover Moldova’s economy
Every sector that defines the country’s economy, in one place.
