Best Romanian Beverage Types
Fetească Neagră, which translates as black maiden, is a thin-skinned red grape variety whose origins are believed to be in the historical region of Moldavia, but the grape is nowadays mainly cultivated in Romania. Fetească is one of the most widespread grapes in Romania, and though in the past it was often used in the production of sweet styles, nowadays it is mostly used for dry varietal wines.
Depending on the region, dry Fetească Neagră wines can slightly differ in character, but they typically have moderate acidity and are usually not too overpowering or tannic. Typical aromas and flavors include dark fruits such as blackberries or plums, while oak-aged varieties tend to have spicy and toasty nuances.
Fetească Regală is a native Romanian white grape variety that first appeared in the 1920s in Transylvania. For a long time, it was believed that Regală was a hybrid between Koverszolo (Grasa de Cotnari) and Fetească Alba, but recent findings show no specific parent-offspring relationship.
During the communist regime, the grape was especially favored because it was suitable for mass production. Nowadays, Regală is used for dry and sparkling wines, and it is the most planted grape in Romania. The best expressions of dry Regală are fresh and aromatic with typical aromas of white fruit, roses, and white flowers.
Fetească Alba (White Maiden) is a Romanian white grape variety that is closely related to Fetească Regală variety and the red-skinned Fetească Neagră. It is cultivated in various Romanian regions as well as Moldova and Hungary—though it was often mistaken with Hungarian Leanyka variety.
Fetească Alba is mostly used in dry varietal wines, but some blends, sparkling and sweet styles may be available on the market. Dry varietal wines are typically fragrant with medium acidity and citrus and floral aromas, which may be accompanied by nuances of stone fruit such as peach or apricots.
THE BEST Fetească Alba Wine Varieties
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Vișinată is a Romanian version of sour cherry liqueur. Often prepared as a homemade specialty, the drink is made by macerating sour cherries and sugar in neutral alcohol. The combination is left to infuse for several weeks or months until the macerate attains cherry flavors and appealing red color.
There are no set recipes for vișinată, and most families have their traditional techniques. The final flavor largely depends on the recipe, choice of base spirit, and the quality and ripeness of cherries. When the macerate is ready, the liquid is filtered, while alcohol-soaked cherries can be used in desserts.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Borș is a traditional fermented product hailing from Romania. It is made by fermenting wheat bran, sometimes together with cornmeal and bread slices. Borș can be enjoyed plain, but it is often used to make traditional soups (ciorbă).
It is mostly available as a homemade beverage produced by local farmers who sell it at traditional markets, though commercial versions are also available. Borș is packed with nutrients and probiotics and is often promoted as a healthy and nutritious drink, as well as a great hangover cure.
Țuică is a traditional plum brandy. Often dubbed as Romanian moonshine, this potent spirit is produced from fermented plums, and it is traditionally once or twice distilled in copper stills. Țuică is a clear and colorless spirit with an alcohol content that can range from 20 to 60 percent ABV.
After it is distilled, it can be aged in wood. During maturation, it becomes mellow and attains light caramel color. Țuică is the most popular Romanian liquor, and it is traditionally served as an aperitif or a welcome drink. It is a staple on every special occasion, and it is usually served neat in shot glasses.
Best Romanian Beverage Producers
Jidvei is the largest wine producer in Romania, located in the Târnave region of Transylvania, an area renowned for its winemaking tradition. With vineyards spanning over 2,500 hectares, Jidvei produces a wide range of high-quality wines, including still, sparkling, and semi-sparkling wines, as well as vinars, a brandy distilled exclusively from wine.
The company operates four state-of-the-art wineries in Jidvei, Tăuni, Blaj, and Bălcaciu, with a storage capacity exceeding 35 million liters. Known for its commitment to quality, Jidvei uses modern technology while preserving traditional winemaking techniques.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2019
BEST Jidvei Spirits
Brâncoveanu Vinars is a premium brandy produced by Alexandrion Group, the largest producer and distributor of alcoholic beverages in Romania. Named after Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, this brandy pays tribute to his 25-year reign over Wallachia, symbolizing nobility and Romania's cultural heritage.
The production of Brâncoveanu Vinars takes place at Alexandrion Saber Distilleries 1789, a state-of-the-art distillery located in Prahova County, one of the largest bottling facilities in Southeastern Europe. This brandy is crafted using traditional methods, employing wine distillates aged in oak barrels for various periods, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
AWARDS
The Brandy Masters - Gold
2022
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Silver
2024
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
BEST Brâncoveanu Spirits
Carpathian Single Malt is the first Romanian single malt whisky, meticulously crafted by the Alexandrion Group at their state-of-the-art Alexandrion Saber 1789 Distillery, situated near the Carpathian Mountains. This exceptional whisky is produced using 100% malted barley sourced exclusively from Romania, combined with pure Sub-Carpathian water.
The distillation process follows traditional Scottish methods, employing double distillation in custom-made copper pot stills. The spirit is initially matured in first-fill Kentucky bourbon barrels and then finished in a variety of wine and cognac casks, imparting a unique character to each expression.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
The Luxury Masters - Gold
2023
BEST Carpathian Single Malt Whisky Spirits
The COTNARI company is the heart of the Cotnari vineyard since 1948. The love of locals for the growth and fruit of the vine has taught us to cherish every sun-carrying bean and to share with others the joy of life. The wine road is long but full of rewards.
We take care of the over 1,700 hectares of vineyards through high-performance agricultural work. Our specialists work in the laboratory of the compound or in the vineyard to obtain new varieties of vines and new wine varieties.
AWARDS
Berlin Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2022, 2020, 2018
Portugal Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2021, 2019, 2018, 2017
Asia Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2020, 2019
BEST Cotnari Wines
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2023
BEST SC Cramele Recas Wines
Alexandrion Group is a leading producer and distributor of spirits and wines in Romania, with a history spanning over 200 years. The company operates the Alexandrion Distillery and The Iconic Estate winery, producing a diverse portfolio of products, including brandy, vodka, and single malt whisky.
Notable brands include Brâncoveanu vinars, Alexandrion Carpathian Single Malt, and Kreskova vodka. The company is also committed to social responsibility, supporting cultural and sports initiatives through the Alexandrion Foundation.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2023
The Vodka Masters - Gold
2023, 2022
BEST Alexandrion Saber Distilleries 1789 Spirits
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2024
BEST S.C. Via Viticola SRL Wines
Best Romanian Beverages
AWARDS
Berlin Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
Portugal Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2019
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
AWARDS
The Luxury Masters - Master
2023
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2022
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
Jidvei Extrabrut is a premium sparkling wine produced by SC Jidvei SRL Filiala Alba, a renowned winery from the Târnave wine region in Romania, known for its long-standing tradition of crafting high-quality wines. This Extrabrut sparkling wine is characterized by an exceptionally low sugar content, making it dry and refreshing, perfect for those who appreciate refined and sophisticated beverages.
Made from carefully selected grape varieties such as Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, it boasts a delicate balance of flavors and elegance. It features a pale yellow color with golden reflections, fine and persistent bubbles, and a fresh, well-balanced taste with fruity notes of green apple, citrus, and subtle floral hints.
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2019
AWARDS
Barcelona Beer Challenge - Gold
2020
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