Myton Hill Sauvignon Blanc, 750 ml

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However, today this is changing fast with privatised wineries now owning vineyards and investing in modern equipment, and small boutique producers appearing too. You should also note that the picture images show only our serving suggestions of how to prepare your food - all table accessories and additional items and/or ingredients pictured with the product you are purchasing are not included. Russia banned all Moldova's wine in 2006 and again in 2013 causing massive financial hardship in a country that was already impoverished.

Myton Hill Made With Sauvignon Blanc | Morrisons Myton Hill Made With Sauvignon Blanc | Morrisons

It is not far north of the capital Chisinau, close to the historic village and cave monastery of Old Orhei (well worth a detour). The international grapes, including cabernet sauvignon, are not simply upstart arrivistes but have been here since the early 19th century, arriving when the Russian aristocracy brought in French experts (most famously from the Cahors region) after Moldova joined the Russian Empire in 1812. Old Tom Nottage was the nephew of Hardys founder and, after more than 66 years dedication, it seemed only fitting that one of the prime vineyards be named in his honour. Until recently, very few of its wines made it to western markets, but that is all changing with a number of Moldovan wines arriving in the UK, including a couple of new listings from pioneering estate Château Vartely at The Wine Society. In the past, the wine industry was set up to supply vast quantities of cheap, vaguely wine-like alcohol to Russia - wineries often had their own railway sidings, volumes were so large.

White grapes come from cooler vineyards in the centre of Moldova close to the winery, while red grapes are trucked during the night from Comrat in the south, where the climate is warmer and better for ripening red varieties.

Hardys Nottage Hill Sauvignon Blanc | Morrisons Hardys Nottage Hill Sauvignon Blanc | Morrisons

Few people know where Moldova is and even fewer people will be aware that Moldova is actually a significant wine producer, reliant as it has been on exports to its former Soviet neighbours.And the industry has been working hard on raising standards, improving knowhow and developing new protected geographical indications, at the same time as helping to support rural life and slowing the flood of people leaving to work abroad. Soups like chicken zama or ciorba are tasty and filling and then stuffed vine leaves or cabbage may follow. Wine is at the heart of Moldovan life - even the shape of the country resembles a bunch of grapes dropped onto the map, or so Moldovans like to claim, possibly after a glass or two of the local product. Moldova also has some unique grapes local to the region (arguably shared with Romania) that are proving to be exciting in expressing this special terroir. It has also built a small tourist complex and restaurant - to help improve wine culture in Moldova itself.