LECHBURG | Cru Piccola Foresta | Feteasca Neagra | 2019
feteasca neagra

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The Lechburg winery prides itself for its sustainable practices in vineyard management, aiming to deliver wines that embody the spirit of the Transylvania’s unique terroir, contributing to the region’s identity.
Today we are going to review a single-varietal feteasca neagra wine from the relatively cool Lechinta region of Romania – Cru Piccola Foresta Feteasca Neagra 2019 by Lechburg. 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.

The wine we are reviewing today is a testament to the unique terroir of the Lechința region, situated in the beautiful Sâniacob microregion of Transilvania. The winemaking methods employed at Lechburg reflect a commitment to sustainability by applying the principles of the organic farming, without the use of synthetic chemicals, but rather a range of natural ingredients, that have the role of starters in harmonization of the biological processes in the soil, where they stimulate microbial life. In order to preserve the varietal characteristics of the feteasca neagra grapes and the delicate terroir notes of the microregion, this wine has been aged for just 3 months on fine lees in large oak barrels, then matured only in concrete tanks before deemed ready to be released on the market shelves.

The Lechinta region is formed mainly of clay and loamy soils, which are rich in minerals that enhance the final character of the wine. The climate here is relatively cool, suited mostly to white grape varieties or thin skinned red varieties, characterized by significant temperature variations between day and night. This environment allows for a meticulous ripening process, essential for the development of the grapes. Feteasca Neagra, a vigorous vine requiring precise management, thrives in these conditions, producing wines of great character.

color: pale and transparent garnet color
clarity: hazy copper shades at the rim of the glass

In the glass, this wine displays a pale garnet color, adorned with slightly hazy copper shades at the rim.

intensity: rich & savory
fruit character: ripe

On the nose, the wine presents a rich and savory aromatic profile that features vibrant forest fruits, including blueberries, blackberries and blue plums, supported by pronounced savory notes of forest floor and new leather. The background reveals a layer of baking spices like anise and cloves, intertwined with subtle notes of sweet tobacco, violets and hints of liquorice.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: medium | balance: good
finish: medium | aftertaste: velvety-elegant

On the palate, this wine unfolds as medium-bodied with a round and ample mouthfeel. The interplay of flavors is beautifully balanced: ripe forest fruits complemented by smooth, fine-grained tannins, leading to a lingering velvety finish. The bright acidity enhances its elegance and vivacity, promising a delightful drinking experience, while a touch of alcoholic warmth adds depth and structure.

maturity: in its prime | do not age | drink now or within a year
verdict: great | a must try wine | a wine that has all the traits to become legendary

In conclusion, this wine stands out for its excellent quality and is all about elegance and finesse. It is ready to be enjoyed today or within a year, but with proper cellaring, it might continue to evolve for another year or two, gaining further complexity and depth. Cru Piccola Foresta is a true reflection of its delicate terroir, thus representing an outstanding example of Transylvania’s burgeoning wine scene.

LECHBURG | Cru Piccola Foresta | Feteasca Neagra | 2019
variety: feteasca neagra
country: Romania | Transilvania
region: Lechinta | Saniacob
rating: 94.1

For a perfect pairing, we suggest serving it with tournedos rossini drizzled with a cherry and wine reduction sauce, allowing the wine’s vibrant fruit character to elevate the dish’s rich flavors brilliantly.

While the Lechburg winery is relatively new on the Romanian wine scene, its adherence to organic practices and the production of high-quality wines reflect a broader movement within Transylvania wine map, aimed at revitalizing the region’s vinicultural legacy.

© 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!