Codru

Codru is the central wine region of the Republic of Moldova and one of the country's three areas with protected geographical indication (IGP), alongside Ștefan Vodă and Valul lui Traian. Set in the heart of Moldova, around the capital Chișinău, the region spreads across wooded hills and rolling plateaux, its name taken from the very woodlands — the codri — that cover this central zone. It is the largest of the protected wine regions by area and the richest in wineries, and is considered the epicentre of Moldovan viticulture.

Climate and terroir

Its central position gives it a moderate continental climate, cooler than in the south of the country, with higher altitudes and a beneficial influence of the forests on the microclimate. These conditions, together with the favourable, often limestone soils and the temperature swing between day and night, help preserve acidity, freshness and aromatic finesse in the grapes. The surrounding forests shield the vineyards from abrupt temperature changes and maintain a favourable water balance, which is why Codru is recognised first and foremost as a region of fine, elegant white wines and quality sparkling wines.

Grape varieties and wine styles

Codru excels with international white varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Aligoté, but also with aromatic varieties and with the native Fetească Albă and Fetească Regală. The white wines are prized for their freshness, their balanced acidity and their fine floral and fruity aromas. The region is also the cradle of the Moldovan tradition of traditional-method sparkling wine, a prestigious local speciality. Balanced, elegant red wines are made here too, from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Fetească Neagră — leaner and cooler in style than those of the south.

Benchmark wineries

Codru is home to some of Moldova's largest and best-known wineries. Here are the celebrated underground cellars of Cricova and Mileștii Mici, famous for their galleries — tens of kilometres carved into limestone — and for their remarkable wine collections, Mileștii Mici being known for one of the largest wine collections in the world. The region also holds modern wineries open to wine tourism, among them Château Mimi, Asconi and Château Vartely, as well as numerous family estates. This exceptional concentration of producers makes Codru the principal destination for Moldovan wine tourism.