Wine Tourism - A 'Divine' Route to the North of Moldova

The Peresecina commune enables visitors to discover the traditional rural areas of Moldova as well as a winery with its own special features. The itinerary continues to historic sites in the north of Moldova: cave monasteries, river waterfalls, and bends in the old Nistru River that fascinate the heart of every visitor. In Tipova, Saharna, Japca or Rudi (the choice is yours) you will be impressed by the centuries old monastic way of life, the traditional cuisine and also the possibility to taste drinks prepared according to the monks’ ancient recipes. Then you can admire the mysterious Soroca Fortress (1490) that played an important role in the defensive system of Moldova and, together with its sister fortresses at Castel del Monte, Queenborough, Walmer and Deal, dates back to the Renaissance. The aromas and amber colours of Moldova’s "divines" can be appreciated during a visit to the famous wineries of "Barza alba" (Balti), "Calarasi" (Calarasi) and "Aroma" (Chisinau). At Bahmut we recommend a visit to the Scientific Nature Reserve of "Plaiul Fagului", where you can admire the protected plants species, as well as the incomparable beauty of the ancient forests of Moldova. When visiting Moldova do not miss the opportunity to acquaint yourself with the production process of another drink of national origin – "divine" (a product known worldwide and similar to French cognac). Divine, which is distilled from wine, together with brandy (a mixture of alcohol, grapes and other ingredients), merisor (distilled from apples), tuica (distilled from prunes), rachiu and vodka – are all strong drinks traditionally made in the Republic of Moldova. Our national pride is taken all over the world by the divines produced in Chisinau, Balti, Tiraspol, Calarasi and Bardar. Divines and brandy are also produced on a large scale in Stauceni, Falesti, Hincesti, Nisporeni, Ungheni, and other winemaking centres. Moldovan divines, in terms of age and quality, are divided in three categories: for every day consumption (3-5 years old), superior quality (over 5 years old) and collection divines. Divines with special names are highly appreciated by the connoisseurs: Belii Aist - Barza Alba, Aroma, Cezar, Orfeu. The following divines have a special reputation: Nistru, Doina, Bucuria, Sarbatoare, Chisinau (10 years old); Codru, Noroc, Dacia, Stefan Voda (20 years old); and most of all, those matured for over 40 years like Victoria, President and Ambasador. Vines grown in the central and northern regions of Moldova such as Aligote, Rcatiteli, Feteasca alba, and Riesling de Rhein are used as the basis for divine production. Their wines undergo a series of distillations and storage in oak casks, which create divines with a rare aroma of flowers and vanilla, with a harmonious and smooth taste, with nuances of the noble oak tree, with amber colours. When savouring Moldovan divines you will feel the warmth of the sun mixed with the coolness of morning dew, the transparency of our clean air mixed with the vigour of our rich soil, and you will appreciate the uniqueness of this original drink. A moderate consumption of a divine will restore your physical strength, will bring peace of mind and give you confidence in your own abilities. It will enhance your love of life and beauty. Don't forget to buy a bottle of divine for your friends – it makes a divine gift.