Wines Codru Purcari Estate - Saperavi Oak Aged - 2018

Viniou Reviews

This wine is a 2018 Cuvée Saperavi Oak Aged from the Purcari Estate, located in the Codru region of Moldova. The Saperavi grape, originally from Georgia, is renowned for its deep colour, firm structure and pronounced tannins, making it an intriguing choice for this blend. Matured in oak barrels, this wine benefits from additional layers of complexity, adding notes of vanilla, spice and subtle smokiness to the vibrant dark fruit core. The 2018 vintage allowed for ripe grape phenolics due to favourable weather, further enhancing the wine’s overall structure and ageing potential. Vinification follows a traditional method, with careful selection of berries, fermentation at controlled temperatures, and patient oak ageing to harmonise the robust character of Saperavi.

Codru is the heartland of Moldovan wine production, set in the central part of the country. The region’s rolling hills benefit from a moderate continental climate, with warm summers balanced by cooling breezes and just the right level of rainfall to foster healthy, slow-maturing grapes. The soils here are rich in chernozem – black, fertile earth – with limestone and clay inclusions, which provide excellent drainage and impart distinctive minerality and freshness to the wines. Codru has a winemaking history dating back centuries, with Purcari Estate itself established in the early 19th century and a reputation for producing wines of both finesse and power.

Given the robust character and oak ageing of this Cuvée Saperavi, it is best paired with substantial dishes. It excels alongside grilled or roasted meats such as lamb shoulder, beef ribeye, or venison. Traditional Moldovan dishes like tochitura (a slow-cooked meat stew) are particularly appropriate, as are aged cheeses and dishes featuring earthy mushrooms. The wine’s structure and tannins will complement the rich textures and bold flavours of these foods.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least one hour and serve at 16-18°C. This allows the full aromatic complexity and silky texture to come to the fore, making for a memorable tasting experience.