The Codru appellation lies in the heart of Moldova, between the Romanian and Ukrainian borders, across a hilly landscape of valleys, ravines and ridges at altitudes between 150 and 400 metres. The climate is temperate continental, with mild winters and long, warm summers, an average annual temperature close to 9.5°C and more than 300 sunny days a year. Soils are dominated by chernozem, a fertile black earth, alongside brown and grey soils. White varieties make up the majority of plantings, led by chardonnay, Rhine riesling and sauvignon blanc, while cabernet sauvignon and merlot account for the red varieties. This broken terrain and the dominance of chernozem give Codru conditions especially suited to white and sparkling wines, setting it apart from Moldova's other wine regions.
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Codru is known chiefly for white and sparkling wines, with reds playing a smaller role. White wines show a pale lemon-yellow colour with green reflections that deepen to straw and gold with age; the nose is fresh, marked by mineral notes and a floral, fruity bouquet, with a lively, balanced palate. They are often enjoyed young, though the more structured cuvées age well over a few years. Reds, based on cabernet sauvignon and merlot, show a ruby colour, red-berry aromas lifted by spice, and a supple, round, velvety texture with light tannins best enjoyed in their youth. The region also produces sparkling wines and liqueur wines. Codru whites pair well with fish, shellfish and fresh cheeses, while the reds suit poultry, charcuterie and lightly simmered dishes.
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