Romania

Although climatically very different, Romania lies on the same latitude as France. The main geographical features which also temper the continental climate of the country are the Black Sea, the Danube river and the height of the Carpathian Mountains. The mountain range occupies almost half the country, rising to about 2,500 metres and enclosing the Transylvanian plateau, situated at about 400 metres above sea-level. In the south, the Danube flows through a sandy plain, turning north towards its delta and isolating the province of Dobrogea with its opening to the Black Sea. The climate is continental with hot summers and cold winters, moderated by the factors above, as well as the soils that are mostly stony and well-drained around the Carpathians but more alluvial and sandy in the coastal area, and last but not least, the exposure to sun light and “warmth” of the Romanian soul are the key factors determining the quality of wines produced in what many would consider a God-blessed wine country.

Dobrogea is one of Romania’s most important regions being the country’s only coastal area and plays host to the world’s second largest river delta, the Danube Delta. It was in Dobrogea that a famous horde of archaeological objects were found which revealed the importance of wine in the ancient cities along the Romanian shore – something that winemakers are fiercely proud of.

The Dobrogea wine region can enjoy up to a whopping 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a perfect destination for growing grapes and making wine. The climate is distinctly warm, but is moderated and cooled by the coastal breeze of the Black Sea. Generally dry climates provide more suitable conditions for organic farming, with many winemakers taking up natural practices.