National Wine Day

National Wine Day is one of the most important celebrations of the Republic of Moldova, a tribute to a thousand-year-old tradition of viticulture and winemaking in these lands. Dimitrie Cantemir was already writing about the abundance of the Moldovan vineyards in „Descriptio Moldaviae” (Description of Moldavia), and wine has remained through the centuries a national pride and an essential component of the economy, the culture and the daily life of Moldovans.

History and establishment

The celebration was established by decision of Parliament and has been organised in festive form since 2002, the first edition taking place at the initiative of the authorities of the time. Its purpose is to promote Moldovan wine, to support producers and to consolidate the country's image as a first-rank wine destination. Initially marked on a variable date, from 2012 the celebration is held on the first Saturday and Sunday of October, marking the end of the grape harvest and of another year of work in the vineyards.

How it unfolds

The main event takes place in Chișinău, in the capital's central square, transformed for two days into a great wine fair. Dozens of wineries — from large combines to small family cellars — present their production at stands, offering tastings to visitors and telling the story of their varieties and technologies. The atmosphere is completed by folk music, dances, folklore ensembles, folk craftsmen and traditional dishes, in a genuine celebration of the harvest and of Moldovan hospitality.

Significance and the present

Beyond the party, National Wine Day has become a key instrument for promoting the „Vinul Moldovei” (Wine of Moldova) brand, which is winning international markets more and more and gaining recognition at prestigious competitions across the world. The celebration attracts numerous foreign tourists and crowns the „Drumul Vinului” (Wine Road), the route of cellars and vineyards — among which are famous complexes, with underground galleries tens of kilometres long — that make the Republic of Moldova one of the oldest and richest wine countries in the world. For Moldovans, wine is not just a drink but a part of their identity, present at every festive table, and the day dedicated to it has become a symbol of national pride and an invitation addressed to the whole world to discover the vineyards and the hospitality of these lands.