How the Purcari winery began in 1827
A decree of Emperor Nicholas I in 1827 made Purcari the first specialised winery in Bessarabia. The cellar from that year has been restored and is part of the visit today.
After the Soviet Union collapsed, production stopped for about ten years. In 2003 the company Vinăria Purcari took over the estate and restored the cellars.
Negru de Purcari and the 1878 Paris medal
Negru de Purcari is the house's signature wine. The story goes that at the 1878 Paris World's Fair tasters took it for a Bordeaux, and it won a gold medal.
Today it is a dry red from Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), Saperavi (25%) and Rară Neagră (5%), aged 18 months in French oak barriques. The range also includes Roșu de Purcari and Alb de Purcari.
What the estate has: a chateau, vineyards and a restaurant
The estate has over 260 hectares of vineyards at 120–160 m above sea level, about 500 m from the Dniester. Château Purcari, built in 2003, is described as Moldova's first wine castle.
On site there is a hotel and a restaurant with two halls, seating 40 and 100.
Visits and tastings: what the winery says
The winery offers tours of the chateau and the historic cellar with a guide, an introduction to production, and wine tastings. Bike and car rides through the vineyards are also possible.
We found no prices, opening hours or tour languages on the official site. Ask the winery directly.
- Company phone: (+373) 22 856 022
Frequently asked questions
- When was Purcari Winery founded?
- In 1827, by a decree that made Purcari the first specialised winery in Bessarabia. After a pause it was revived in 2003.
- What is Negru de Purcari made from?
- From Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), Saperavi (25%) and Rară Neagră (5%), aged 18 months in French oak barriques.
- Where is Purcari Winery?
- In the village of Purcari, Ștefan Vodă district, next to Căușeni, about 500 m from the Dniester.
- Can you tour and taste at Purcari?
- Yes, the winery offers guided tours of the chateau and historic cellar, plus tastings. Confirm prices and hours with the winery.
