Fetească Neagră is an important red grape variety grown throughout Romania. It produces full bodies wines capable of ageing many years.
Over the last 10-15 years Fetească Neagră has grown steadily in stature. Initially used as a local blending component with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this star Romanian variety is now being taken seriously in its own right.
It is thought that Fetească Neagră was originally planted in the Carpathian foothills, not far from Iaşi. Over time its proliferation extended towards the regions of Wallachia, Oltenia, Dobruja, and lately Banat, Transylvania and Crişana. Today the variety is planted all over Romania but the better examples are found in the Muntenia-Oltenia region, where the Carpathian mountains descend into gentler slopes and finally onto the plains. It is here, in the Dealu Mare that the best examples of Fetească Neagră are made.
Viticulturally it’s vigorous. Yields can be quite low which likely explains its relatively low level of surface area plantings, despite of course its growing reputation as Romania’s premium red grape. In the vineyard it needs care and attention. Pruning is a must. On the positive side though it has shown itself to be sturdy against both continental Romania’s frosts and drought. It is in the glass that the variety shows its potential. Thick skinned and with plenty of acidity, it often leads to wines that can both soften and improve with age.
