DOMENIILE VORNICENI | Viorica | 2023
viorica

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Domeniile Vorniceni offers a series of easy-drinking wines, meant to highlight the country’s distinctiveness. The wines are based mainly on indigenous grape varieties, showcasing the essence of local winemaking.
Today we are going to review a single varietal viorica wine from the relatively cool, Codru region in central Moldova – Domeniile Vorniceni Viorica 2023 by Divus Winery. Viorica is a rare, light-skinned white grape variety that is little known outside of Moldova, as it is mainly used in production of table wines. It was long considered the visit card of Moldova’s wines, as it is distinguished by an expressive and intense aromatic bouquet, reminiscent of wild flowers and sweet fruits. Viorica is traditionally vinified off-dry or semi-sweet due to its nuanced aromatics, resulting in truly unique and flamboyant wines. This is a variety with a strong personality: citrusy-floral on the nose, with a touch of honey in the background – a variety that has only recently been introduced to the international markets where it has been highly appreciated.

The Codru wine region has a moderate, relatively cool climate and a diverse array of loamy and clay soils, providing an ideal environment for grape growing, especially well suited for white grape varieties. The altitude and microclimate of this wine region boasts moderate rainfall and is influenced by the Carpathian cool winds as well as the Black Sea breezes. The region is characterized by its fertile chernozem soil and a continental climate, with warm summers and mild winters, promoting healthy vine growth and aiding in balanced water supply and moisture retention, thus contributing to the wine’s retention of flavors.

color: medium-pale | straw-white color
clarity: pale | pastel-lemon shades at the rim

The wine presents a medium-pale, straw-white color, accompanied by pale, pastel-yellow hues at the rim.

intensity: pronounced & floral
fruit character: ripe & overripe

On the first nose, the wine displays a pronounced and floral accent, with notes of linden flower, elderflower, acacia blossom and honeysuckle, which sit harmoniously with vibrant citrusy elements like bergamot and pomelo. The aromatic profile is further complemented by sweet undertones of yellow pear, apple, and quince, rounded out by delicate hints of beeswax and hay, adding even more complexity.

sweetness: off dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: low | balance: good
finish: medium | aftertaste: crispy-hot

On the palate, the wine feels rich, ample, and nicely structured, presenting a delightful array of ripe to overripe fruit characteristics intertwined with floral notes. Its off-dry style is balanced by crisp acidity, and a noticeable touch of alcoholic warmth. The body is light to medium, with low tannins enhancing the clean finish. This combination of elements allows for a complex mouthfeel, leaving a lingering impression.

maturity: in its prime | drink now or within a year
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality

Overall, this is an expressive and nuanced wine that serves as a splendid representative of the viorica grape variety. The wine is currently in its prime form and it does lack the finesse and freshness expected from an aromatic variety. Our suggestion is to enjoy the wine today or within the a year.

DOMENIILE VORNICENI | Viorica | 2023
variety: viorica
country: Moldova
region: Codru
rating: 92.1

Taking into consideration it’s flavour profile, this wine will pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider pairing it with light seafood dishes, such as grilled prawns or a ceviche, so that the floral and citrusy notes in the wine would be complemented by the richness of the dish.

This wine offers an engaging tasting experience, inviting wine lovers to explore the emerging landscape of Moldova’s wines and the unique qualities of its indigenous grape varieties. Cheers!

The viorica grape variety is a symbol of Moldova’s winemaking and is known for its resilience to challenging weather conditions, including drought and spring frost, making this wine a true discovery for wine lovers.

© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation. Cheers!