This is Moldova's most famous wine. It was apparently Quenn Victoria's favorite and Queen Elizabeth gets a case every year. Who knew? If served blind, I would likely guess Bordeaux 5th growth or perhaps a Sonoma Cab (Beringer Knight's Valley Reserve?). Not to slight Modova as it would never enter my guessing knowledge. If there was a complaint that in a tasting of Moldovan wines, it is not exotic or unusual which is a bit un fair. It is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 70%, Saperavi 25%, Rara Neagra 5%. It spends 18 months in French oak barrels. Inky purple in color, ruby at the rim, opaque and bright. The nose has cassis, black cherries, some chocolate with a touch of figs. Full bodied. On the palate, this is youthful with medium tannins. A big, soft, round texture. Accessible. Cassis, figs and a slight char. Deep and complex if tight. This seems like it will still improve and drink well for the next twelve to fifteen years. The winery website lists these as food pairings: noble ripened cheeses; baked deer roulade filled with figs; roulade of pheasant with chestnut puree. I would say it would be great with prime rib or a steak.
