The wine regions
Moldova has three PGI wine regions, each with its own climate, terroir and character. From the elegant whites of Codru to the prestige reds of Ștefan Vodă.
Codru
The wine region of central Moldova, around Chișinău and the Codri forests. A cooler climate, wooded hills and varied soils give elegant white wines, fine sparkling wines and refined reds. This is where the world's largest underground cellars are found — Cricova and Mileștii Mici.
Valul lui Traian
The wine region of south-western Moldova, named after the Roman rampart of the emperor Trajan. The warm continental climate is ideal for full, structured red wines. It extends across the districts of Hîncești, Leova, Cantemir and Cahul.
Ștefan Vodă
The wine region of south-eastern Moldova, between the Dniester and the Ukrainian border, with the gentle influence of the Black Sea. An ideal terroir for prestige reds — this is where the legendary Negru de Purcari is made, a wine once served at the British royal court.
Where to stay in the wine regions
Guesthouses and hotels close to the vineyards — useful if you are doing a wine tour and would rather not drive back in the evening.
Map provided by Stay22. Bookings are completed on the partner platforms.
Plan your visit
Where to stay
Real hotels and guesthouses, with prices compared on the map across Booking, Airbnb and other platforms.
SeeTours & day trips
Organised trips with transport included — useful above all if you are going tasting.
SeeGetting there from Romania
Plane, coach, train or car — real journey times, border crossings and the documents you need.
SeeFrequently asked questions
What you need to know
How many wine regions does Moldova have?
Three, all with Protected Geographical Indication status: Codru in the centre, Valul lui Traian in the south-west and Ștefan Vodă in the south-east. Each has its own climate, terroir and style of wine.
Which is Moldova's largest wine region?
Codru, the region in the centre of the country around Chișinău. It is the largest of the three PGI areas and the one with the most wineries, widely regarded as the epicentre of Moldovan winemaking.
Where are Moldova's best red wines made?
In Ștefan Vodă, the south-eastern region between the Dniester and the Ukrainian border, considered the heart of Moldovan red wine — this is where Negru de Purcari comes from. Valul lui Traian in the south-west makes full, concentrated reds.
Which wine region do you visit if you are based in Chișinău?
Codru, since the capital sits right in the middle of it. Cricova, Mileștii Mici, Castel Mimi, Château Vartely and Asconi are all here, the country's densest cluster of wineries open to visitors.
Fancy a tour of the wine regions?
We put together tasting routes built around the style of wine you like.
