Moldova’s rich winemaking tradition, rooted in passion and craftsmanship, is gaining momentum in international markets. Brazil holds a special place. Although the country has been a hub for winemaking for centuries, Moldovan wines have only recently started making a notable impact in the Western Hemisphere, invest Moldova reports.
In 2023, the Republic of Moldova recorded a production of about 1.8 million hectoliters of wine, ranking 18th in the world among wine producers. According to the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV), the Moldovan wine production increased by about 27% and reached the highest level since 2018.
Moldovan wines stand out for their authenticity and craftsmanship. This distinction is recognized by Fernando Zamboni, CEO of Winelands Brazil and a wine connoisseur with more than 30 years of experience, who is committed to bringing the world’s most exceptional wines to Brazil.
During his visit in November 2024 to Moldova with a group of Brazilian wine exporters, he was impressed by the country’s potential in this sector. “Moldovan wines are successful in Brazil because they offer a better cost-benefit ratio than their competitors… Consumers see the value in Moldovan wines and not just the price,” says Zamboni. “Moldovan producers are deeply committed to quality, and this dedication resonates with consumers—particularly in Brazil, where wine enthusiasts are eager to discover unique, unconventional options,” he added.
Breaking Barriers: Introducing Moldovan Wines to Brazil
Bringing Moldovan wines to Brazil was not without challenges. In the beginning, both Moldovan producers and Brazilian importers faced significant obstacles. According to Fernando Zamboni, one of the biggest difficulties was a lack of familiarity with the Brazilian market among Moldovan winemakers. Negotiations were often rigid, with most of the financial risk falling on the importers. Additionally, when the first shipments of Moldovan wine arrived, Brazilian consumers knew little about Moldova—let alone that it produced outstanding wines. “I can’t even say that these challenges were overcome, because to this day we work day after day to make more Brazilians aware of Moldovan wines,”Zamboni admits. Despite these initial struggles, persistence has paid off.
Today, more than 248 Moldovan wine labels are available in Brazil, with demand steadily rising. Brazilian consumers have developed a particular appreciation for Moldova’s indigenous grape varieties, such as Feteasca Neagră, Rară Neagră, and Viorica. Unlike well-known international grapes, these native varieties offer something distinctive and exotic—an appeal that continues to drive interest and sales in the Brazilian market.
Moldavian wine exports to Brazil have grown significantly from 2020 to 2024, with regular wine becoming the dominant category. After no exports from 2014 to 2019, Moldova’s wine exports to Brazil surged from 6 to 59 tons, with value increasing from $9,000 to $159,000. This reflects a successful shift toward premium wines, with prices rising from $1,500 to $2,695 per ton. Sparkling wine exports have been less consistent, but there are emerging premium opportunities in 2024. Despite Brazil’s overall wine imports growing by only 19.4%, Moldova’s market share has increased sixteen fold, from 0.002% in 2020 to 0.033% in 2024.
The Path Forward: Strengthening Ties and Expanding Reach
As Brazil emerges as a key market for Moldovan wine, the next steps for expansion are clear. One of the most effective ways to boost sales is by giving Brazilian consumers the opportunity to experience Moldovan wines firsthand. According to Zamboni, allowing wine professionals to visit Moldova, connect with local winemakers, and witness the production process is essential.
“I am available to take care of all the organizational aspects and take groups of customers from Brazil… to visit Moldovan producers and increase the traded volume,” he states.
Streamlining logistics is another crucial factor for growth. Establishing a centralized warehouse for small producers could simplify the export process, reduce shipping costs, and make it easier for boutique wineries to enter the Brazilian market. By consolidating smaller batches from multiple producers, Moldova can create a more efficient and competitive supply chain.
Additionally, direct engagement between producers and retailers has played a key role in increasing sales. Brazilian wine professionals who have visited Moldova and built relationships with local winemakers return home with a deeper appreciation for the wines—something that translates into stronger recommendations to their own customers.
“Imagine if you had a restaurant or a wine store in Brazil… and you visit Moldova, meet the people who produced those Moldovan labels… when a consumer comes into your store, which wine will you suggest?“ the importer asks.
These personal connections and immersive experiences create lasting loyalty, reinforcing Moldova’s presence in the Brazilian market.
What Does the Future Hold for Moldovan Wines?
With its exceptional quality, rare authentic grape varieties, and growing recognition in key markets like Brazil, Moldova is steadily positioning itself as a rising star in the international wine industry.
An important milestone in this journey was the first visit of Brazilian importers to Moldova in November 2024. By experiencing Moldova’s winemaking process firsthand, these importers gained a deeper understanding of the industry and built strong relationships with local producers. This initiative has played a key role in expanding Moldova’s presence in the Brazilian market and fostering long-term collaboration.
As Moldova continues to captivate Brazilian wine lovers, this partnership has the potential to evolve beyond wine – strengthening economic ties, fostering cultural exchange, and placing Moldova firmly on the global map.