Discover Oltenia’s Wine Heritage
Oltenia, a historical region in southwestern Romania, offers a unique blend of rich viticulture and cultural treasures. This lesser-known wine destination boasts a Mediterranean-like climate, perfect for producing robust reds and crisp whites.
Towns and Villages
Craiova, Oltenia’s largest city, serves as an ideal base for wine exploration. Its historic center features impressive architecture and lively cafes.
Segarcea, a small town south of Craiova, is renowned for its winemaking tradition dating back to the 14th century. Visit the Royal Wine Cellar, once a supplier to the Romanian royal family.
Wine Producers
- Domeniul Coroanei Segarcea: A revived royal estate producing premium wines from indigenous and international grape varieties.
- Crama Oprișor: Known for its innovative winemaking techniques and award-winning reds.
- Vinarte Winery: Offers guided tours and tastings of their locally-inspired wine range.
Accommodations
For a luxurious stay, book a room at the Ramada Plaza Craiova. This centrally-located hotel offers easy access to the city’s attractions and nearby wineries.
Wine enthusiasts should consider Casa Crăița, a charming guesthouse near Segarcea with its own vineyard and cellar.
Dining
Bulevard Food Court in Craiova offers a diverse selection of local and international cuisines, perfect for pairing with Oltenia’s wines.
For traditional Romanian fare and an extensive local wine list, visit Restaurant Perla in the heart of Craiova.
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore Craiova’s Enoteca de Vinuri for a curated selection of Oltenia’s finest wines. This cozy shop offers tastings and expert advice on local vintages.
Visit La Butoaie, a rustic wine bar in Craiova’s old town, featuring an extensive list of regional wines by the glass.
Other Shops
Pick up local handicrafts at Târgul Meșterilor Populari, a market showcasing traditional Oltenian artisanry.
Mercur Center in Craiova offers modern shopping amenities, including local food products and souvenirs.
Attractions
Explore the Art Museum of Craiova, housed in the opulent Dinu Mihail Palace, featuring works by Romanian artists.
Visit the Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Eastern Europe, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Events
Attend the Craiova International Shakespeare Festival in April, celebrating the Bard with performances and cultural events.
Don’t miss the Oltenia Wine Festival in September, showcasing the region’s best wines alongside local cuisine and music.
Appellations
Discover wines from the Segarcea DOC (Denumire de Origine Controlată), known for its full-bodied reds and aromatic whites.
Explore the Drângănești DOC, producing elegant reds from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes.
Grape Varieties
Oltenia’s vineyards cultivate both international and local grape varieties. Crâmpoșia Selecționată, a white grape, is indigenous to the region.
- White varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling
- Red varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir
Main Wine Styles
Oltenia produces a range of wine styles, with a focus on dry whites and full-bodied reds. The region is known for its:
- Crisp, aromatic white wines from Crâmpoșia Selecționată
- Bold, structured red wines from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
- Elegant sparkling wines from the Drăgășani area
Food Specialties
Oltenia’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Local specialties include:
- Oltenia Sausages: Spicy pork sausages
- Drob de miel: Easter lamb haggis
- Plăcintă cu brânză: Cheese-filled pastry
Drives & Walks
Explore Oltenia’s wine country through scenic drives and walks. The Drăgășani Wine Route offers breathtaking vineyard views and winery visits.
- Drive: Craiova to Drăgășani (80 km) through rolling hills and vineyards
- Walk: Cozia National Park trails, combining nature and nearby wineries
Itineraries
Plan your Oltenia wine adventure with these suggested itineraries:
3-Day Wine Tasting Tour
- Day 1: Explore Craiova and visit urban wineries
- Day 2: Drive to Drăgășani, tour vineyards, and taste local wines
- Day 3: Visit Cozia National Park and nearby boutique wineries
Week-long Oltenia Discovery
- Days 1-2: Craiova’s history and wine scene
- Days 3-4: Drăgășani wine region exploration
- Days 5-6: Horezu pottery workshops and local wineries
- Day 7: Relax at a wine spa retreat
Getting There & Around
Craiova International Airport serves as the main gateway to Oltenia. From there, you can:
- Rent a car for flexibility in exploring wineries
- Take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your accommodation
- Use public buses for budget-friendly travel between towns
Tip: Book a private wine tour for a hassle-free experience and local insights.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Oltenia’s wine country is during the grape harvest season (September to October). You’ll enjoy:
- Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
- Opportunities to participate in harvest festivities
- Stunning autumn colors in the vineyards
Spring (April to May) offers blooming landscapes and fewer crowds.
Sustainability Efforts
Oltenia’s wine industry is embracing eco-friendly practices:
- Organic vineyard management at select wineries
- Solar-powered production facilities
- Water conservation techniques in wine-making
Pro tip: Look for the “Viti-vini Ecologic” label for certified organic wines.
Language Tips
While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Romanian wine terms can enhance your experience:
- “Vin” – Wine
- “Crama” – Winery
- “Degustare” – Tasting
- “Noroc” – Cheers
Tip: Download a Romanian language app for on-the-go translations.
Further Resources
Expand your Oltenia wine knowledge with these resources:
- Romanian Wine Growers – Official association website
- “The Wines of Romania” by Caroline Gilby MW – Comprehensive guide
- Discover Romania: Oltenia – Regional tourism information
Insider tip: Follow local wineries on social media for event updates and harvest reports.
