Chateau Purcari Alb de Purcari 2021

Drink now or cellar for up to 5 years. Serve well chilled. Although little-known outside of its Moldovan homeland, Chateau Purcari is making waves as one of Eastern Europe’s most exciting wineries. The winery’s heritage dates back to the 19th century when French settlers partnered with local monks to begin planting Bordeaux varieties here alongside the indigenous grape varieties. Over the intervening years the quality of the local wines has been recognised at key wine competitions like the Paris World Exhibition as well as more recently at the Decanter World Wine Awards where this wine won a silver medal. Alb de Purcari is a stunning white composed of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio along with a drop of Pinot Blanc. The grapes are sourced from estate vineyards planted close to the Black Sea which provides a cooling influence and helps to preserve aromatics and freshness in the white grape varieties. The fruit is carefully harvested by hand and vinified according to time-honoured winemaking techniques before being matured in French oak barrels for 6 months. Enchanting hints of green apple, honeysuckle and stone fruit define the nose while the palate offers mouthwatering freshness, a medium body, and a well-rounded texture with hints of cream and toasted oak from the barrel ageing. A great match for grilled fish, chicken dishes served with a rich, creamy sauce, or a generous platter of cheeses.

Price: £22.96 from 8wines UK