Top 17 Romanian Beverages

Carpathian Single Malt is the first Romanian single malt whisky, meticulously crafted by the Alexandrion Group at their state-of-the-art Alexandrion Saber 1789 Distillery, situated near the Carpathian Mountains. This exceptional whisky is produced using 100% malted barley sourced exclusively from Romania, combined with pure Sub-Carpathian water. The distillation process follows traditional Scottish methods, employing double distillation in custom-made copper pot stills. The spirit is initially matured in first-fill Kentucky bourbon barrels and then finished in a variety of wine and cognac casks, imparting a unique character to each expression. Expand

Jidvei is the largest wine producer in Romania, located in the Târnave region of Transylvania, an area renowned for its winemaking tradition. With vineyards spanning over 2,500 hectares, Jidvei produces a wide range of high-quality wines, including still, sparkling, and semi-sparkling wines, as well as vinars, a brandy distilled exclusively from wine. The company operates four state-of-the-art wineries in Jidvei, Tăuni, Blaj, and Bălcaciu, with a storage capacity exceeding 35 million liters. Known for its commitment to quality, Jidvei uses modern technology while preserving traditional winemaking techniques. Its products have earned over 840 medals at prestigious international and national wine competitions. Jidvei is particularly known for its aromatic white grape varieties, such as Fetească Regală, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling, which thrive in the cool climate of the Târnave region.Expand

Alexandrion Group is a leading producer and distributor of spirits and wines in Romania, with a history spanning over 200 years. The company operates the Alexandrion Distillery and The Iconic Estate winery, producing a diverse portfolio of products, including brandy, vodka, and single malt whisky. Notable brands include Brâncoveanu vinars, Alexandrion Carpathian Single Malt, and Kreskova vodka. The company is also committed to social responsibility, supporting cultural and sports initiatives through the Alexandrion Foundation. Expand

Brâncoveanu Vinars is a premium brandy produced by Alexandrion Group, the largest producer and distributor of alcoholic beverages in Romania. Named after Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, this brandy pays tribute to his 25-year reign over Wallachia, symbolizing nobility and Romania's cultural heritage. The production of Brâncoveanu Vinars takes place at Alexandrion Saber Distilleries 1789, a state-of-the-art distillery located in Prahova County, one of the largest bottling facilities in Southeastern Europe. This brandy is crafted using traditional methods, employing wine distillates aged in oak barrels for various periods, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. Renowned for its quality and authenticity, Brâncoveanu Vinars has received accolades at international competitions. It is available in the domestic market through the official Alexandrion Group online store, as well as in specialized shops, HoReCa establishments, and premium retail chains.Expand

Cramele Recaș is one of the most significant and most modern wineries in Romania. The vineyards cover around 1,150-1,200 hectares, placing the winery among the largest private producers in the country. The terroir consists of limestone and clay soils with southern and southwest exposures, allowing optimal grape ripening while preserving freshness. The portfolio includes international varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet, as well as Romanian indigenous varieties like Fetească Regală. Production spans a wide range of styles: from light and fresh white wines, through fruit-forward reds, to more complex, barrel-aged labels and limited editions. Cramele Recaș successfully demonstrates that Romania can offer wines with a clear identity and a modern style, competitive on the European market. The winery balances large-scale production with an authentic expression of terroir, making it a relevant producer to watch on the contemporary wine scene.Expand

Fetească Neagră, which translates as black maiden, is a thin-skinned red grape variety whose origins are believed to be in the historical region of Moldavia, but the grape is nowadays mainly cultivated in Romania. Fetească is one of the most widespread grapes in Romania, and though in the past it was often used in the production of sweet styles, nowadays it is mostly used for dry varietal wines. Depending on the region, dry Fetească Neagră wines can slightly differ in character, but they typically have moderate acidity and are usually not too overpowering or tannic. Typical aromas and flavors include dark fruits such as blackberries or plums, while oak-aged varieties tend to have spicy and toasty nuances. Fetească is an excellent match to roasted, braised or grilled meat, especially lamb or beef, and it can also work well with spicy dishes, rich stews, and aged cheese. Some varieties may even be a good match to chocolate-based desserts. Expand

Vișinată is a Romanian version of sour cherry liqueur. Often prepared as a homemade specialty, the drink is made by macerating sour cherries and sugar in neutral alcohol. The combination is left to infuse for several weeks or months until the macerate attains cherry flavors and appealing red color. There are no set recipes for vișinată, and most families have their traditional techniques. The final flavor largely depends on the recipe, choice of base spirit, and the quality and ripeness of cherries. When the macerate is ready, the liquid is filtered, while alcohol-soaked cherries can be used in desserts. Commercial vișinată is also available. Expand

Fetească Regală is a native Romanian white grape variety that first appeared in the 1920s in Transylvania. For a long time, it was believed that Regală was a hybrid between Koverszolo (Grasa de Cotnari) and Fetească Alba, but recent findings show no specific parent-offspring relationship. During the communist regime, the grape was especially favored because it was suitable for mass production. Nowadays, Regală is used for dry and sparkling wines, and it is the most planted grape in Romania. The best expressions of dry Regală are fresh and aromatic with typical aromas of white fruit, roses, and white flowers. Young varieties are usually light-bodied, but the grape has excellent aging potential, and when aged in oak, the wines tend to be full-bodied and more intense, sometimes with almond notes. Regală wines pair well with fish and white meat, as well as with some classic Romanian dishes. Expand

Fetească Alba (White Maiden) is a Romanian white grape variety that is closely related to Fetească Regală variety and the red-skinned Fetească Neagră. It is cultivated in various Romanian regions as well as Moldova and Hungary—though it was often mistaken with Hungarian Leanyka variety. Fetească Alba is mostly used in dry varietal wines, but some blends, sparkling and sweet styles may be available on the market. Dry varietal wines are typically fragrant with medium acidity and citrus and floral aromas, which may be accompanied by nuances of stone fruit such as peach or apricots. These wines pair well with light dishes, including poultry, fish, and salads. They are mostly enjoyed young, but some of the best examples can be aged for several years.Expand

Borș is a traditional fermented product hailing from Romania. It is made by fermenting wheat bran, sometimes together with cornmeal and bread slices. Borș can be enjoyed plain, but it is often used to make traditional soups (ciorbă). It is mostly available as a homemade beverage produced by local farmers who sell it at traditional markets, though commercial versions are also available. Borș is packed with nutrients and probiotics and is often promoted as a healthy and nutritious drink, as well as a great hangover cure. Expand

Țuică is a traditional plum brandy. Often dubbed as Romanian moonshine, this potent spirit is produced from fermented plums, and it is traditionally once or twice distilled in copper stills. Țuică is a clear and colorless spirit with an alcohol content that can range from 20 to 60 percent ABV. After it is distilled, it can be aged in wood. During maturation, it becomes mellow and attains light caramel color. Țuică is the most popular Romanian liquor, and it is traditionally served as an aperitif or a welcome drink. It is a staple on every special occasion, and it is usually served neat in shot glasses. During winter, it can be heated before serving. The term țuică is only reserved for fruit brandies distilled from plums, while the varieties distilled from other fruit are generally called rachiu, palincă, hornică, jinars, or fatatas.Expand