The Republic of Moldova (rum. Republica Moldova; Moldova for short) in south-east Europe with the capital Chișinău covers 33,8431 km². It borders Romania to the west and is surrounded by Ukraine to the north, east and south. The state was created in 1991 following the collapse of the USSR. The eastern part of Transnistria is not under the control of the Moldovan government. It declared itself independent after a military conflict in 1992 and is an area supported by Russia with a de facto regime and is not recognised internationally.
The geographical roots lie in the historical landscape of Bessarabia. Many archaeological finds, such as amphorae and grape seeds, prove that viticulture has been practised here for over 5,000 years in ancient times. The influence of Romania can be felt through the long shared history of viticulture. Numerous legends and anecdotes bear witness to the ancient wine-growing tradition.
For me, Lexicon from wein.plus is the most comprehensive and best source of information about wine currently available.
Egon Mark
Diplom-Sommelier, Weinakademiker und Weinberater, Volders (Österreich)