Moldova is one of those off-the-beaten-path wine countries that deserves a much brighter spotlight on the world stage. And Château Vartely is helping bring the nation into the light in a big way. As Master of Wine Caroline Gilby writes, “Château Vartely was one of the first of the new generation of quality-focused producers.”

Enjoy a delicious taste of their expertise with this rare Viorica. First cultivated in 1969, the white Viorica grape was developed in Moldova by crossing red grape varieties Seibel and Aleatico. Currently, only 95 hectares (about 230 acres) of Viorica vines grow in Moldova, with even fewer found in neighboring Ukraine, Russia, Hungary, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. So, you’re one of a lucky few in the U.S. to taste it!

Look forward to fresh floral, zesty citrus and ripe stone fruit aromas. The palate has similar fruit flavors plus hints of honey and basil on the long, elegant finish. If you’ve never tasted Viorica before, enjoy a glass on its own to really explore its complexity. Then, pair it with seafood, white meats or grilled veggies.

Viorica is rare in Moldova and even rarer in the U.S. Be among the first to taste this beautiful white.