Bottle mail from Moldova

Château Purcari was already the world's most awarded winery in 2021, winning 30 medals at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards that year. In 2023, Purcari was named the best wine producer in Moldova at the Mundus Vini wine competition and the most successful winery in Central and Eastern Europe by Decanter. Winemaker Federico Gioto, also known as the 'earth whisperer', tells us why.

Moldova is slightly smaller than the Netherlands and lies on the border of Europe, between Romania and Ukraine. The most famous winery here is Château Purcari, which lies between the Dniester River and the Black Sea. On magical ground, you might say. Because during the 1878 World Fair, Purcari managed to beat wineries from Bordeaux and Burgundy at a blind tasting in Paris. This also confirmed why Purcari's wines had long been enjoyed by Tsar Nicholas II, England's King George V and Queen Victoria. For two centuries, Purcari winemakers have continued to amaze the wine world with their exceptional wines, appreciated by wine experts and enthusiasts alike. This is because Purcari sticks to their values, combining the uniqueness of the terroir in the very best way possible with tradition and striving for perfection.

Ode to freedom

In recent years, the vineyards and century-old cellars have been completely renovated and Purcari is turning its gaze westwards more than ever. Perhaps you have drunk the Freedom Blend yourself in recent years? Château Purcari's Freedom Blend was launched in 2014 as a manifesto for freedom, from three indigenous grapes from three different countries. The wine has the heart of Georgia, the terroir of Moldova and the free spirit of Ukraine. In 2022 came the Freedom Blend Tribute Edition, intended to support the Ukrainian people, the heroes who bravely protect their freedom.

The earth whisperer

Federico Giotto has been an oenologist at Purcari for 15 years. He looks after the indigenous grapes with unpronounceable names, as well as the international classic varieties. As the interview begins, Federico apologises for his English pronunciation 'but the language of wine is universal'. According to Federico, the ultimate wine is not some contrived style, but the natural expression of a particular grape growing in a particular place in the world. Federico: 'Pinot Noir, for example, does not become a fruity wine in Moldova. I love the Pinot from Château Purcari. That sensation of flowers and spices!'

Further reading? You will find more information in WINELIFE Magazine, issue 86. You can order this one here. 

Don't want to miss a single edition? Subscribe then subscribe to WINELIFE Magazine now!

Want to stay up to date with the best articles? Follow WINELIFE magazine on Instagram, Facebook and sign up for our fortnightly newsletter.