This is the description of the first wine from the many tasted during the trip to Moldova. Although we visited Castel Mimi on the last day of the trip for Moldovan wines, it left a very deep mark not only with the food and wine tasting, but also with the environment, interior and overall organization. In the large and pleasant restaurant, before each meal, the guide described the wine to us. Specifically, this wine was served with snails – it is the first time I have eaten them. The paired food and wine were fantastic, as was the rest of the tasting menu.
9 Muses Viorica Brut is a sparkling wine from the Castel Mimi winery, which is among the most important wine producers in the Republic of Moldova. It was created from the Viorica variety – one of the few original Moldovan aromatic varieties, which in recent years has been gaining increasing recognition outside the domestic market. The combination of traditional winemaking, modern technology for the production of sparkling wines and a characteristic aromatic expression makes this wine an interesting representative of contemporary Moldovan viticulture.
Briefly about the Viorica variety, which was bred in 1969 in Moldova by crossing the Seibel 13-666 varieties (French breeder Albert Seibel, 13 is the series to which the seedling was included and 666 is the serial number of the seedling in the given series) and the Italian Aleatico variety. The aim of the breeding was to create an aromatic white variety with good resistance to diseases and continental climatic conditions. The result is a variety that provides wines with a pronounced floral aroma, tones of Muscat, citrus and white fruit while maintaining fresh acidity. Viorica is today considered one of the most characteristic Moldovan varieties and is among the symbols of the country’s modern wine identity.
The Castel Mimi winery is one of the most historically significant wineries in Moldova. Its history dates back to 1893, when it was founded by Constantin Mimi – the last governor of Bessarabia during the Russian Empire, a prominent politician, winemaker and one of the pioneers of modern viticulture in the region. After extensive reconstruction (photos of the remains of the winery at the end of the Soviet era captured almost complete devastation), the historic mansion was transformed into a modern winery that combines respect for traditions with the latest wine production technologies. Castel Mimi is now one of the most visited wine destinations in Moldova and regularly receives international awards for the quality of its wines. Currently, the winery complex also serves as a venue for important international meetings and diplomatic events, making it one of the symbols of modern Moldova.
Here is the description of the wine:
The wine has a light yellow color with subtle golden reflections. The effervescence is rich, delicate, formed by small and long-lasting bubbles that highlight its fresh character.
The aroma is dominated by white flowers, acacia, linden blossom and delicate Muscat tones typical of the Viorica variety. Gradually, aromas of citrus peel, peach, pear and green apple are added. Delicate yeast tones created during the production of sparkling wine complement the overall elegance of the aromatics.
The taste is fresh, harmonious and very well balanced. The fruity tones of citrus, green apple and white peach are complemented by delicate floral aromatics. The effervescence is delicate and supports the lively character of the wine. Residual sugar (10 g/dm³) mitigates the higher acidity without disturbing the brut style of the wine. The finish is clean, fresh, medium-long and a combination of citrus and floral notes persists. (The residual sugar value of 10 g/dm³ is at the upper limit of the Brut category according to international rules, which is why its designation “Brut” on this sparkling wine is absolutely correct).
Alcohol is 13% vol.
This wine stands out best at a temperature of 6–8 °C, when its aromatics and the elegance of its fine effervescence fully develop.
It is excellent as an aperitif. It pleasantly complements fresh seafood, oysters, shrimp, sushi, fish, goat cheese, delicate appetizers, salads, or poultry prepared in a light way. Thanks to the aromatics of the Viorica variety, it also goes well with Asian cuisine with a slightly spicy character.
9 Muses Viorica Brut represents a modern take on Moldovan sparkling wine and at the same time shows the truly interesting potential of the Viorica variety. It combines freshness, fine bubbles and characteristic aromatics, which distinguishes it from most common sparkling wines made from international varieties. Through this wine we can get to know the typical expression of modern Moldovan wine production and discover a lesser-known, but very interesting aromatic variety of contemporary Moldovan viticulture.
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