DOMENIILE VORNICENI | Floricica | 2023
floricica

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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 Floricica 2023 by Divus Winery. Floricica is a relatively new grape variety, created by crossing of the Rhein Riesling and Datie de Sen Valie varieties and homologated in 2007 at the National Institute of Viticulture and Winemaking. It has increased resistance to fungal diseases, grey rot and is resistant to spring frosts. Floricica is very rare, aromatic white grape variety that is little known outside of Moldova. This variety was created to combine the aromatic potential of a high-quality grape variety with the hardiness and adaptability of disease-resistant hybrids. Wines made from Floricica grapes often exhibit floral and fruity aromas, hence its name, which means ‘little flower‘ in romanian language.

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: pale | straw-white color
clarity: clear | lemon hues on the rim

In the glass, this wine showcases a pale straw color with delicate lemon hues at the rim, inviting the observer to explore its vibrant personality.

intensity: pronounced & floral
fruit character: ripe & overripe

On the nose, the wine is immediately enveloped in a pronounced aromatic bouquet of floral notes like elderflower and peonies, complemented by an elegant citrus background featuring lime and bergamot. The interplay of ripe white fruits, such as overripe pear and quince, weaves a character that is both inviting and intriguing, presenting a well-rounded olfactory experience that enhances its aromatic playfulness.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: low | balance: good
finish: medium+ | aftertaste: smooth & hot

On the palate, the wine reveals an ample yet lean texture, exemplifying opulence without heaviness. The wine showcases a ripe to overripe fruit character, echoing the aromatic profile. With a dry finish, balanced by crisp acidity, the mouthfeel feels smooth and slightly hot, leading to a lingering aftertaste. The wine’s palate is marrying the elements of sweetness, acidity, and a hint of alcoholic warmth in nice harmony.

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

Overall, this wine represents a delightful expression of the floricica grape variety – it is right there, in its prime form, showcasing a slightly opulent character without foregoing complexity. Its well-balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile suggest that it could be enjoyed now or within a year.

DOMENIILE VORNICENI | Floricica | 2023
variety: floricica
country: Moldova
region: Codru
rating: 92.3

Consider pairing this aromatic wine with grilled scallops drizzled with a citrus glaze or a light seafood pasta dressed in a gentle garlic and olive oil sauce. The refreshing acidity of the wine will complement the dish richness, creating a congruent harmony between flavors that enhances both the food and the wine.

Domeniile Vorniceni operates under the umbrella of the famous Divus Winery, which strives to capture the essence of what Moldova has to offer through its wines. The winery’s commitment to indigenous grape varieties like Floricica sets them apart in a world dominated by international grape varieties.

© 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!