Moldova to host world congress of vine and wine for the first time in 2025

The Republic of Moldova is set to host the 46th World Congress of Vine and Wine from June 16 to 20, 2025, marking the first time this global event will take place in the country. The congress will be held at the Palace of the Republic in Chișinău, bringing together around 300 experts, researchers, winemakers, oenologists, producers, and policymakers from 51 member countries of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). The event will focus on discussions about the future of the global wine industry and will include technical visits to some of Moldova’s most renowned wineries.

Moldova stands out in the world of wine for its high vineyard density, with four hectares of vineyards for every 100 people. The country’s total vineyard area covers nearly 110,000 hectares. Moldova ranks among the top 20 wine producers globally and is currently the 14th largest wine exporter. In 2024 alone, Moldova exported 144 million liters of wine valued at over $234 million. Moldovan wines reach 73 countries, with half of all exports destined for European markets.

Wine plays a central role in Moldova’s identity, history, and economy. Over recent years, the sector has seen significant growth due to improvements in quality and investments in wine tourism infrastructure. Today, more than 250 wineries operate across the country, offering both high-quality wines and unique experiences for visitors. Moldova’s reputation as a serious wine producer has been reinforced by thousands of medals won at international competitions such as Berliner Wine Trophy, Mundus Vini, Decanter World Wine Awards, and Concours Mondial de Bruxelles over the past five years.

A key development in promoting Moldovan wines internationally was the establishment of the National Office of Vine and Wine (ONVV) and the launch of the national brand “Wine of Moldova: Unexpectedly Great” in 2013. These efforts have helped raise awareness about Moldovan wines and attract attention from both consumers and experts worldwide.

During the congress, participants will have opportunities to visit leading Moldovan wineries through 13 technical tours. A highlight of the program is a festive dinner at Cricova, an underground wine city famous for its extensive network of tunnels and its acclaimed wines.

The event is organized by OIV in collaboration with Moldova’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry and ONVV. Moldova became a member of OIV on April 3, 2001, becoming the first country from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) to join. The upcoming congress also coincides with OIV’s centenary celebrations in 2024, marking a significant milestone as the organization enters its second century.

Participation packages for the congress are available through the official website. Organizers expect that hosting this major event will further strengthen Moldova’s position on the global wine map and showcase its rich winemaking heritage to an international audience.