DIVUS WINERY | Feteasca Neagra | Volumul I | 2019
feteasca neagra

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Today we are going to review a single-varietal feteasca neagra wine, that is considered by some, to be one of the best FN wines from Moldova – Feteasca Neagra Volumul I 2019 by Divus Winery. Feteasca Neagra is an indigenous romanian variety that has been grown for hundreds of years on substantial plantings in the south of Moldova and eastern Muntenia and today, this is the most famous red variety in Romania. Wines made from feteasca neagra grapes are usually fruit-forward, complex and structured, wines that often are compared to merlot and cabernet franc, mostly due to their body, robust tannins and elegant textures. There is a rising demand for feteasca neagra wines on the regional as well as on the international markets and many wine experts consider this variety to be the visit card of romanian wines. In order to add a layer of extra complexity, but at the same time, to preserve the varietal characteristics of the feteasca neagra grapes, 90% of the wine has been aged for 6 months in french oak barrels at second use, while the remaining 10% of the wine was aged for the same period in new american oak barrels. 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: hazy | ruby hues on the rim

//Olfactory
intensity: pronounced & oaky
fruit character: ripe & dehydrated

On the first nose, this wine unveils an enticing fusion of ripe and dehydrated black fruits that immediately capture attention. The foreground showcases notes of black cherry, dark plum and blackberry, offering a rich and inviting aromatic layer, supported by pronounced hints of coconut, toasted oakwood and liquorice, that add more depth to the wine’s already complex bouquet. The background brings forward a tapestry of spice, with whispers of dried fruits lingering beneath the surface. Cloves, nutmeg and anise intertwined with hints of figs and dates, which forms a subtle yet compelling layer of extra complexity. This wine delivers a delightful olfactory bouquet, mixing vibrancy of fruit with the elegance of sweet spice and dried fruits, leading to a very appealing and explosive tasting experience.

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

On the palate, this wine delivers a captivating symphony of flavors, showcasing a delightful fruit character, with a distinct emphasis on ripe and dehydrated black fruits, oak and spice. The mouthfeel reveals crisp acidity and silky tannins that enliven the senses, creating a velvety texture that enhances the tasting overall experience. A subtle touch of well-integrated alcoholic warmth adds depth and structure, contributing to the wine’s ample body. The wine’s round and lush palate offers a harmonious journey from start to finish, leading to a rich and appealing aftertaste. This wine embodies balance, harmony and finesse, making it a commendable choice for those seeking an expressive and rich feteasca neagra wine.

//Verdict
maturity: in its prime | drink now or in the next 3 years
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality with good potential

All in all, this is an ample and well-structured feteasca neagra wine with a round, lush and rich palate, however, despite it has a quite nice varietal typicity, the oak-infused notes tend to dominate over the other elements, creating a slight imbalance. That said, the wine displays an interplay of ripe black fruits, spicy undertones, and nuanced oaky hints, that add depth and complexity to the flavour profile. While it holds some promises of an ageing potential, the wine is almost there, at its peak form, thus ready to be enjoyed today. For those wine enthusiasts seeking for a wine that combines complexity with expressivity and flamboyance, this feteasca neagra is a must-try.

//Scoring
DIVUS WINERY | Feteasca Neagra | Volumul I | 2019
variety: feteasca neagra
country: Moldova
region: Valul lui Traian
rating: 93.1
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This is definitely a fine wine of Moldova and, with a total of 93.1 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: Judging by the wine’s expressive and rich flavor profile, we would recommend to pair it with a grilled ribeye steak with a rich wine reduction sauce. The wine’s round and lush palate, coupled with its expressive and plush mouthfeel, will harmonize seamlessly with the hearty flavors of the ribeye, while the ripe and dehydrated black fruit notes in the wine, along with its nuanced hints of oak and sweet spice, will complement the richness of the sauce. In the same key, the velvety texture of the wine will mirror the steak’s tenderness, while the crisp acidity and silky tannin will cut through the soft texture of the meat, providing a refreshing contrast. This pairing promises a gastronomic symphony, celebrating the wine’s varietal elegance and elevating the dining experience to new heights of hedonistic pleasure. Cheers!

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