VINARIA NOBILA | Feteasca Neagra – Saperavi | 2021
feteasca neagra | saperavi

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Today we are going to review a wine that has been released relatively recently on the market, which comes from the famous Stefan Voda region of Moldova – Feteasca Neagra – Saperavi 2021 by Vinaria Nobila. As its name suggests, this wine is a blend of two grape varieties: feteasca neagra and saperavi, where feteasca neagra forms the wine’s main body and enriches the flavor profile with notes of black fruits, whereas saperavi enhances the wine’s structure and adds more complexity to the final blend, thus forming a more dynamic finish. The wine is signed by the famous local oenologist Oleg Boboc and, in order to soften the tannins and add extra complexity to the final blend, the wine has been aged for 12 months in french and american oak barriques, both new and used. But enough with all that theory, that said and without further ado, let’s take a look at the wine tasting results.
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Take a look at the tasting notes below and our detailed assessment of the wine:

//Visual
color: medium-deep ruby color
clarity: clear ruby shades on the rim

//Olfactory
intensity: rich | fruit-forward
fruit character: ripe

On the first nose, this wine reveals an enticing fusion of ripe fruits and pronounced, oak-derived undertones. The foreground showcases a harmonious blend of red and black fruits, notably redcurrants, blackcurrants, cranberries and blackberries, creating a nuanced aromatic profile. The background delivers an appealing, french vanilla accent, complemented by hints of oak-derived notes. This red wine presents a well-rounded olfactory profile, where the interplay of ripe fruits, sweet spices and subtle oaky nuances reveals a pleasing and vibrant bouquet.

//Palate
sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: medium+ | balance: good
finish: medium | aftertaste: crisp & plush

On the palate, this wine delivers a captivating display of ripe to overripe fruit character, highlighted by enchanting notes of red fruits and sweet spice. The mouthfeel is marked by exuberant acidity that adds a lively and invigorating touch, complemented by seedy tannins that contribute to a slightly robust texture. A notable hint of alcoholic warmth enhances the wine’s body, creating a plump, round, and rich mouthfeel. The aftertaste is crisp, leaving a lasting fresh and plush sensation, making each sip a delightful tasting experience.

//Verdict
maturity: developing | drink now or in the next 2 years
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality with good potential

All in all, this is a round, plump, and rich wine blend, that feels slightly opulent and a bit lush on the mouthfeel. The fruit-forward nature of the wine is evident, providing a nicely balanced profile yet, this is a wine that in its current state, lacks some structure on the palate. The interplay of refreshing acidity, seedy tannins, and a touch of alcoholic warmth, contributes to a lively and indulgent mouthfeel, showcasing the wine’s approachable and enjoyable qualities. While it may benefit from further bottle ageing to round up its structural elements, this wine remains a delightful option for those seeking a fruit-driven, ample, and easy-to-appreciate red, without too much sophistication.

//Scoring
VINARIA NOBILA | Feteasca Neagra – Saperavi | 2021
variety: feteasca neagra | saperavi
country: Moldova
region: Stefan Voda
rating: 92.1
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This is definitely a fine wine of Moldova and, with a total of 92.1 points scored, this wine is right there, among the best wines we’ve rated so far. Check our complete database on the wine rating page, where you can find all the wines that we have tasted and reviewed or go to the about us page and find out more about our exquisite rating system.

Pairing: Given the wine’s enticing blend of ripe and overripe red fruits, sweet spice undertones, and its round, plump, and rich palate, we would recommend to pair it with a slow-cooked lamb tagine. The succulent and slightly opulent nature of the wine will complement the tender lamb, enhancing its richness and depth, while the fruity character and sweet spice notes in the wine will harmonize with the exotic spices of the tagine, creating a delightful synergy. In the same key, the velvety mouthfeel and seedy tannins will stand up well to the hearty texture of the lamb, while the exuberant acidity will provide a refreshing contrast. This pairing celebrates the wine’s lush and indulgent qualities, creating a culinary experience that elevates both the wine and the dish to a harmonious union of flavors and textures. Cheers!

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