How Moldovan grapes are competing with global giants?

Cultivated for more than 40 years, the “Moldova” table grapes variety is the country’s horticultural ambassador to the world.

In recent years, the Moldova grape variety has become increasingly popular in international markets. Resistant to frost, with large and attractive clusters, a tangy taste, and durability for storage and transport, grapes of this variety are now sold in some of the largest supermarket chains worldwide. Producers from Moldova have convinced consumers in the United Arab Emirates, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Poland, and over 30 other countries to try these grapes and remain loyal in the coming years.

“We produce Moldova grapes using the Pergola system. We achieve a rich harvest, and the grapes have a very attractive commercial appearance. Our region’s day and night temperatures differ vastly, so this dark grape’s flavor quality is undeniable. The marketing window is another plus. Picking begins on September 1, and since you can keep this grape in cold storage for three to six months, marketing continues through February”, says Petru Mihov, founder and CEO Terra Vitis.

Statistical data shows positive dynamics for Moldovan grapes. In 2023, the country managed to export over 88,000 tons of grapes from the 2023 harvest, a significant increase compared to the 57,000 tons exported in the previous season. Grape exports have doubled in the last decade, with Moldova exporting just 37,000 tons in 2013.

The European market share for Moldovan grapes jumped from 35% in the previous season to a remarkable 50% this year.

Moldovan grapes have found their way not only to wholesale markets but also onto supermarket shelves in various EU countries, including Romania, Poland, Croatia, and Latvia. Exports to the Netherlands, Germany, and Great Britain also increased, and Moldova even made its first-ever grape exports to Sweden.

This success can be partly attributed to the adoption of modern viticulture techniques. Moldovan producers are increasingly utilizing intensive vine training systems like tendone/pergola and gable systems, leading to higher yields and improved grape quality. Over the past few years, more than 800 hectares of these types of vineyards have been established. These intensive plantations boast yields four times higher than traditional vineyards, while also producing superior quality grapes. In fact around 98% of grapes harvested from these modern plantations can be classified as Class I or Extra.

Moldova grapes are a seeded variety, which represents an additional benefit for consumers. Moldova’s seeded grapes offer a powerhouse of health benefits, rich in antioxidants that support heart health and boost the immune system. Their fiber content aids digestion, while their anti-inflammatory properties promote overall well-being, making them a nutritious choice for consumers worldwide.