The Viorica grape variety, celebrated for its expressive aromatics and distinctive origin, is one of the Republic of Moldova’s most intriguing viticultural achievements.
Created through scientific precision yet deeply rooted in regional identity, Viorica stands today as a symbol of Moldova’s modern wine renaissance.
Origin and Lineage
Viorica was officially created in 1969 by Moldovan researchers, the result of a carefully planned cross between Seibel 13-666 (maternal) and Aleatico (paternal).
What makes this lineage remarkable is that both parent varieties are red, while Viorica is classified as a white grape.
- Seibel 13-666, a French hybrid, was developed to combine American vine resilience with European wine quality. It offers resistance to extreme temperatures, cryptogamic diseases (such as powdery mildew and grey rot), and phylloxera.
- Aleatico, an ancient and aromatic Italian variety, contributes the intense floral and Muscat-like perfume that defines Viorica’s sensory profile.
This unusual genetic combination results in a grape that merges technical reliability with aromatic finesse.
Health and Safety Profile
Unlike some older hybrids, Viorica does not contain malvidin diglucoside levels above EU-permitted thresholds. This ensures full compliance with European wine regulations, confirming that Viorica wines pose no health risks to consumers and can be confidently produced for international markets.
Recognition and Cultivation
Viorica enjoys official recognition both nationally and internationally:
- Listed as a white wine variety in the Catalogue of Plant Varieties of the Republic of Moldova
- Included in the International Catalogue of Grape Varieties
While Moldova remains its primary home, Viorica has also been planted in: Ukraine, Russia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Bulgaria. As of 30 December 2019, Viorica covered 95 hectares in Moldova, with 26 hectares registered for PGI wine production. Unofficial estimates suggest the total planted area may reach approximately 152.7 hectares, reflecting growing interest from producers.
Clarifying the Name
It is important not to confuse the Viorica grape variety with a former Soviet-era wine blend that carried the same name. That blend included Fetească Albă, Rkatsiteli, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The modern Viorica grape is a distinct variety, genetically unrelated to that historical blend.
Wine Style and Sensory Profile
Viorica dry wines typically display a straw-yellow color with green reflections, highlighting their freshness.
Aromatic profile:
- Intensely floral, often compared to Muscat
- Notes of acacia, jasmine, and linden blossom
- Supported by citrus zest, lychee, yellow apple, and candied apricot
On the palate, Viorica can reveal delicate herbal nuances such as thyme, basil, and dried meadow herbs, adding structure and depth to its aromatic expression. The result is a wine that is fragrant yet balanced, expressive yet refined—well suited for aromatic dry styles, but also adaptable to semi-dry interpretations.
Why Viorica Matters
Today In an era where wine lovers seek authenticity, local identity, and aromatic clarity, Viorica answers all three. It is not only a technical success of Moldovan viticulture, but also a grape that communicates place, innovation, and elegance in every glass.
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