Romania is an ancient wine making land. Its name refers to Rome, that considered it the jewel in its vast Empire due to the bounty of its farms and vineyards. Centuries prior to Roman occupation and Phoenician trade Romania, or Dacia as the Romans knew it, had a well-established wine culture. To this day an almost countless number of wine regions survive. The map above shows the areas that you are most likely to come across while exploring the wonderful wines of Romania.

Many Romanian wines have strange and interesting names, such as Feteasca Neagra and Tamaioasa Romaneasca. These names usually refer to native grape varieties that, in many cases, are exclusive to Romania. Some of these grape varieties have ancient histories. Each wine from Romania provides you with a unique window on history.

The climate, soil and sun exposure are the factors determining successful vine growing and the quality of the wines. The main noble vines of Western European origin-Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris-are grown together with Weischriesling and a number of indigenous varieties, the most important of which are the Feteasca Alba, Feteasca Regala and Grasa de Cotnari. Important indigenous red grapes include the Babeasca Neagra and Feteasca Neagra. A special mention should be made for the native flavored wine Tamaioasa Romaneasca.