Romanian wine myths debunked

Romanian wine is finally getting the global attention it deserves but with rising popularity comes plenty of myths.

From outdated stereotypes to flat-out misconceptions, Romanian wine is often misunderstood, especially outside Eastern Europe.

Let’s bust some of the biggest myths and uncover the truth behind one of Europe’s most underrated wine regions.

🍇 Myth #1: Romanian wine is cheap and low quality

The myth: Romanian wine is only cheap table wine.

The truth: Romania produces wines at every quality level, including award-winning premium bottles.

In the past, Romania exported large volumes of inexpensive wine, especially during the communist era. That reputation stuck.

Today, however:

• Boutique wineries are thriving
• Small-batch production is rising
• Romanian wines are winning international medals

Speaking of, in 2025, Romanian wines won 803 awards and medals in international competitions. 

Image thanks to Wines of Romania

Many bottles easily compete with Western European wines at a fraction of the price.

🍷 Myth #2: Romania only makes sweet wine

The myth: Romanian wine is mostly sweet or dessert-style.

The truth: The vast majority of modern Romanian wine is dry.

While Romania does produce beautiful aromatic and sweet wines, especially traditional styles, most contemporary production focuses on:

• Dry whites
• Structured reds
• Elegant roses

Romania has quietly followed global trends and the modern wine scene reflects that.

🌍 Myth #3: Romanian wine isn’t well known internationally for a reason

The myth: If Romanian wine were good, everyone would know about it.

The truth: Romania is one of Europe’s largest wine producers, it’s just been under-marketed.

For decades, Romanian wine remained:

• Domestically consumed
• Poorly exported
• Under-marketed globally

That’s now changing fast thanks to:

• Younger winemakers
• International competitions
• Better branding and exports

Think of Romanian wine as being where Portuguese wine was 20 years ago — a hidden gem waiting to explode globally.

🍇 Myth #4: Romania only uses local grapes

The myth: Romanian wine is made only from unfamiliar native varieties.

The truth: Romania uses both indigenous and international grapes.

Yes, Romania has an incredible range of native varieties, one of the richest in Europe.

But you’ll also find:

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Chardonnay
• Sauvignon Blanc and many others

Many producers blend local and international grapes, creating unique flavour profiles you won’t find anywhere else.

🏛️ Myth #5: Romanian wine is a new trend

The myth: Romanian wine is a modern discovery.

The truth: Romania has over 4,000 years of winemaking history.

Winemaking in the region dates back to ancient Dacian tribes and was expanded under Roman rule.

In fact, Romania is one of the oldest continuous wine-producing regions in Europe, older than many famous “New World” wine countries combined.

🍾 Myth #6: Romanian wine isn’t worth collecting

The myth: Romanian wine is for casual drinking only

The truth: Some Romanian wines age beautifully

High-quality Romanian reds and structured whites are increasingly:

• Age-worthy
• Limited production
• Sought after by collectors

As awareness grows, early adopters are discovering incredible value in cellaring Romanian wines now.

🍷 The real story about Romanian wine

Romanian wine isn’t just good — it’s misunderstood. It’s:

• Historic yet modern
• Affordable yet premium
• Traditional yet innovative

And that combination is exactly why more wine lovers across the UK are starting to explore it.