Fetească Regală

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.

Young varieties are usually light-bodied, but the grape has excellent aging potential, and when aged in oak, the wines tend to be full-bodied and more intense, sometimes with almond notes. Regală wines pair well with fish and white meat, as well as with some classic Romanian dishes.