Fetească Neagră (Black Maiden)

Black Maiden is considered to be the Romanian signature grape variety and in its best years it overcomes in quality the famous Cabernet Sauvignon.

The obtained red wine can be dry, demi dry or sweet, boasting intense ruby shades, a consistent, fleshy and velvety flavor of dried plums and blackberries, that becomes richer with ageing, and of a medium acidity.

The grapes belong to a prefiloxeric local variety and their cultivation history in the regions of Moldova it is said to go back to the times of the Dacians. The birth region of the variety is assumed to be Uricani, situated in the surroundings of Iasi, Moldova.

The Black Maiden grape size is medium, their shape is regularly cylindric and are abundantly placed in bunches.

The harvest usually takes place in the second half of September, when the sugar levels are 200-220g/l. If the harvest is left for later, the grapes can accumulate up to 260-270g/l sugars.

The alcoholic strength is 12-12,5% vol., with a peak of even 14% vol.

The wines are well appreciated by specialists for their extremely rich flavor complexity and their perfect adaptation to various processing techniques – ageing in barrels or in bottles.

The Black Maiden wines are best paired with red meat, exotic dishes with sauce and black chocolate desserts.