Between the Danube and the Black Sea

Domeniul Bogdan. The Primacy of Biodynamic Wines in Romania

The ancient region of Dobrogea in Romania, located between the Danube and the Black Sea, has a millenary winemaking tradition, blessed with a favorable climate characterized by harsh winters and hot summers, with excellent day–night temperature variations. The soils of this territory are naturally rich from a microbiological point of view, and the crops are caressed by a permanent sea breeze that keeps them healthy. Here, from the dream of a local entrepreneur to produce wines of the highest quality following biodynamic principles, the Domeniul Bogdan estate was founded in 2011—an absolute novelty in the Romanian wine scene. The property currently extends over 156 hectares of vineyards, and with the support of the Italian agronomist Leonello Anello, pioneer and leading expert in biodynamic agriculture, the Patrar (Quarter Moon) wine series was born. The wines tasted are pure expressions of Merlot, Syrah and Feteasca Neagra (Dark Maiden), a rare native grape variety.

The holistic approach chosen by the estate requires daily increased commitment in the vineyard compared to traditional management, supported by deep agronomic knowledge. Likewise in the winery, biodynamic wines rely on the constant sensory sensitivity of the human hand, sound mastery of wine microbiology, spontaneous fermentations, and the exclusive use of concrete tanks and oak barrels carefully selected from the best French cooperages.

Patrar Syrah 2017

Bright ruby highlights with slight purple reflections introduce an intense and refined bouquet. Distinct notes of blueberry jam, moss, fern and flint give way to hints of aromatic herbs, black pepper, incense and mountain pine, enriched by eucalyptus and mint. The palate is enveloping and dynamic, with all components working in excellent harmony, achieving a progressive balance of savory and fresh sensations. Good persistence with a finish of ripe cherry.

Patrar Merlot 2017

A vivid and compact ruby mantle. The initial nose opens with peppermint, macerated violet, blackcurrant jam and raspberry candy, interwoven with hints of blood orange, lemongrass, humus and rhubarb, against a backdrop of blond tobacco with touches of cedarwood. Tasty and incisive on the palate, it reveals immediate fresh-tannic sensations that guide the persistent taste-olfactory progression, inviting another sip. Captivating finish of kumquat and cocoa powder.

Patrar Feteasca Neagra 2017

It dresses the glass in an impenetrable ruby, with slightly evolved nuances. Hints of sealing wax and underbrush embrace aromas of hibiscus, cherry and plum in spirit, liquorice stick, medicinal herbs, gentian and cinchona, continuing with recollections of sandalwood and dark tobacco. On the palate it is rich and full. The pseudo-warm sensation accompanies the gustatory development, supported by the acidic backbone and tannins still in evolution. Persistent, with a finish recalling bitter orange.