The Ștefan Vodă appellation lies in south-eastern Moldova, on the Dniester terraces, close to the moderating influence of the Black Sea. It spans four districts — Ștefan Vodă, Căușeni, Cimișlia and Basarabeasca — covering about 10,000 hectares of vineyard. The soils are chernozem, together with chestnut and podzolic soils rich in humus and trace elements; the Purcari micro-zone features tertiary red soils rich in iron. The continental climate is tempered by the proximity of the river and the sea, with abundant sunshine. Red varieties dominate the vineyard, accounting for about 57% of plantings, led by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Rara Neagră; white varieties, around 43%, include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. Local varieties such as Fetească Neagră, Fetească Albă, Fetească Regală and Viorica complete the vineyard. Ștefan Vodă is Moldova's wine region closest to the Black Sea and the Dniester, which has made it best known for its red wines.
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Ștefan Vodă produces red, white and rosé wines, dry and off-dry. The reds range from pomegranate red to cherry red; the palate is extractive and well-structured, full, velvety and round, with aromas of red and black fruit — sour cherry, blackcurrant, raspberry, prune — and spicy notes. Their dense tannic structure allows them to age well in the cellar. They pair readily with red meat, game and matured cheeses. The whites are complex and elegant, with floral aromas and fresh fruit; the palate is balanced, full, fruity and mineral. They suit fish, shellfish and poultry. The rosés offer a fruity, slightly lively palate, full of freshness, best served as an aperitif or with light, summery dishes.
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