Romanian grapes - Episode 1 - Feteasca Neagra (Black Maiden)

🍇 Feteasca Neagra (Fetească Neagră) – The Black Maiden of Romanian wine

Ancient roots:

Feteasca Neagra is one of Eastern Europe’s oldest grape varieties, believed to date back over 2,000 years to the time of the Dacians, the ancestors of modern Romanians.

Archaeological finds suggest vines of this type were cultivated long before the Romans conquered Dacia in 106 AD.

Name & meaning:

The name means “Black Maiden” is a poetic reflection of both the grape’s dark skin and its elegant, feminine charm. In folklore, she symbolises beauty, mystery and strength, a kind of “goddess of the vineyards.”

Historical journey:

After the Roman conquest, viticulture flourished and Feteasca Neagra became one of the region’s prized varieties. During the Middle Ages, it was a favourite among noble courts and monasteries, prized for its richness and ability to age well.

Despite phylloxera and wars decimating vineyards in the 19th–20th centuries, the grape survived through local replanting and passion, making it a living link to Romania’s ancient winemaking heritage.

Modern renaissance:

In the early 2000s, Romanian winemakers began to reclaim Feteasca Neagra as a national treasure. Once overshadowed by international grapes like Cabernet and Merlot, it’s now at the heart of Romania’s wine identity, with wineries like Crama Ceptura, Tohani, Budureasca and Recas producing award-winning examples.

It’s also gaining ground internationally, with small plantings in Moldova, Hungary and even the UK (by enthusiasts of rare European grapes).

Style & personality:

Feteasca Neagra typically makes medium to full-bodied red wines with aromas of black cherry, plum, dried fruit and spice, often showing smoky or earthy undertones. Oak aging brings out notes of vanilla, chocolate and leather.

It’s often compared to Syrah or Malbec, but with a distinct Romanian soul - rustic, warm and romantic.

Fun facts: 

• Locals say it’s “the wine with a heartbeat”; powerful yet graceful, much like the people of the Carpathians;

• In traditional folklore, Feteasca Neagra was said to give strength and courage to Dacian warriors before battle;

• Some winemakers joke that it’s a “diva grape”; temperamental in the vineyard but produces unforgettable performances when treated right;

• You can find bottles labeled with vintages meant to age 10+ years, proving it’s not just ancient, but timeless;

• Only 1.6% of the entire production of wine and wine surface in Romania is allocated to Feteasca Neagra;

• Food pairing: Loves grilled meats, lamb, game and hearty stews or even Romanian sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls).