On March 20, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Moldova held the final round of the national "Golden Barrel" competition, which is being held for the 24th time
According to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Moldova, this competition has become one of the most important events dedicated to home winemaking in the country. The competition's goal is to identify and promote the best home wine producers, stimulate the consumption of quality wines, and popularize the authentic traditions of Moldovan winemaking. Sergiu Harea, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Moldova, noted that the "Golden Barrel" competition promotes not only high-quality wine but also authentic Moldovan culture and art, passed down from generation to generation. "I sincerely thank all the winemakers whose passion and dedication contribute to the preservation of these valuable traditions, as well as the members of the evaluation committee for the professionalism and objectivity they demonstrate at every stage of the competition," the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry remarked. This year, more than 500 people from approximately 20 regions of Moldova participated in the competition, presenting their home-produced wines. Following regional tastings, 110 wines were selected for the national final. The competition includes a number of categories, encompassing the diversity of domestic winemaking: wines from classic varieties (Vitis Vinifera), wines from hybrid varieties, wines aged in oak barrels, liqueur wines, as well as wines from domestic and recently developed varieties such as Feteasca Albă, Feteasca Regală, Feteasca Neagră, Rara Neagră, and Viorica. The samples were evaluated by a specialized commission based on strict quality criteria, using only natural, pure wines without defects in taste and aroma, presented in accordance with the adopted rules. Winners are determined in each category during the competition, and the grand prize—the "Golden Barrel"—is awarded to the most prized wines in the final round. The awards ceremony will take place during the national holiday "Wine Day" in October. Over the past 23 years, 10,535 wine samples have been submitted to the Golden Barrel competition, of which 224 have been recognized as winners. The Golden Barrel competition has proven itself to be a true launching pad for numerous producers, many of whom have managed to turn their passion for winemaking into successful businesses, helping to strengthen the reputation of Moldovan wine both nationally and internationally. // 20.03.2026 — InfoMarket
