On October 4–5, 2025, Chișinău’s Great National Assembly Square hosted the 24th edition of Moldova’s National Wine Day — the country’s most important celebration of its winemaking heritage. Held under the national brand slogan “Wine of Moldova. Remarkably Good,” the event reaffirmed Moldova’s place on the global wine tourism map, TRIBUNA reports, citing the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry.

More than 150,000 visitors attended, including guests from over 30 countries. A record 9,100 tasting passports were sold — 82% more than in 2024. The event featured 106 wineries, including 43 small local producers.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Ludmila Catlabuga opened the celebration with a message of gratitude to Moldova’s winemakers and grape growers.

“Today we celebrate wine — a symbol of tradition, labor, and national identity. We honor our winemakers and viticulturists who carry this legacy forward with passion and patience. This year, Moldova hosted the OIV World Congress and the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles for the first time, where our wines impressed the international jury. These achievements show that Moldova is not just a dot on the map, but a respected name in the world of wine excellence,” the minister stated.

During the official ceremony, awards were presented for outstanding achievements in the wine sector. “Cricova” S.A. received the Grand Prize, Divus Winery was awarded the Wine Creator’s Trophy, and Vinăria Bardar received the Distillate Creator’s Trophy. The “Petru Ungureanu” Medal for Best Oenologist went to Ion Borta of Cricova, while the “Nicolae Guzun” Medal for Best Viticulturist was awarded to Vasile Dodon of Călăraș Divin.

A key part of the program was the Wine School, which continued to promote responsible consumption and wine education. Visitors attended thematic sessions led by internationally experienced sommeliers and tasters, exploring native grape varieties, regional characteristics with Protected Geographical Indication, food pairing rules, and professional tasting techniques.

The program also featured the “Peasant Courtyard,” showcasing traditional crafts such as pottery, wood carving, carpet weaving, and wine painting.

International journalists and experts from Poland, South Korea, and Canada were invited to produce dedicated coverage of Moldova’s wine culture.