Overview
The Dealu Mare ('Big Hill') sub-Carpathian hills produce Romania's most internationally successful white wines. Chardonnay here benefits from the same southern sun exposure and limestone soils that make Burgundy great — at altitude (200–400m) that preserves acidity. The style sits between unoaked Chablis freshness and lightly oaked Mâcon richness. Producers like SERVE and Prince Știrbey are winning international recognition.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Pale lemon-green
- Nose
- White peach, Lemon curd, Green apple, Chalk and Hazelnut.
- Palate
- Romania's Burgundy aspirant — limestone Chardonnay of genuine elegance. Generally medium-bodied, crisp acidity, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Medium3/5
Tannins Silky1/5
Acidity Crisp4/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Medium3/5
Grapes
ChardonnaySauvignon BlancPinot Gris
Aromas And Notes
White peachLemon curdGreen applePearCitrus blossomChalkHazelnutLight creamFlowersButterToastHoney
Terroir
Continental — south-facing sub-Carpathian slopes, warm days, cool nights, limestone soils. Protected from northern cold.
LimestoneClay-limestoneSandy marlTerra rossa pockets
Food Pairings
Grilled carpChicken paprikashSoft cheeseVegetable strudelFresh pasta
Notable Producers
- Prince Știrbey, founded 1993 - Chardonnay Dealu Mare
- SERVE Ceptura, founded 1994 - Ceptura Chardonnay
- Budureasca, founded 2000 - Premium Chardonnay