The Republic of Moldova, adjacent to northeastern Romania, is perhaps the most promising wine growing country of the former CIS states. Experts believe that the country has a great future, provided it overcomes the consequences of the collapse of the Soviet Union and gets a better grip on cellar management and logistical problems. The signs are not bad, because Moldova was and is the least affected by the decline of the wine industry after the secession of many states from Russia. Viticulture has a long tradition in the country. The Romans already planted the first vines here. Moldova was also one of the first countries to bring top French varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet Sauvignon into the country as early as the 19th century. The conditions for viticulture are also extremely favourable. Even though the country is separated from the Black Sea by a stretch of land in Ukraine, the nearby body of water ensures a mild climate in Moldova as well. The summers are warm and dry, but the winters are quite cold in some latitudes, so frosts must be expected. The country is gently hilly, the highest elevation is just 350 metres. The vineyards, which are spread over the northeast of the country as well as the southeast, can be worked by machine if necessary. Because of the great ageing potential, not only top winemakers like Jacques Lurton, Alain Thiénot, and Hugh Ryman have become involved in Moldova, but also the famous Australian wine giant, Penfolds.
