Purcari is the best-known name in Moldovan wine. The estate was founded in 1827 near the Dniester in the far south-east, and its dark red blend Negru de Purcari became famous in the 19th century. Today the restored château has a hotel, a restaurant and a small lake among the vines.
It is not in Gagauzia, and it is not close: Purcari lies about 120 km south-east of Chișinău and a long cross-country drive from Comrat. But travellers who come to the south for wine often link the two, spending a night at the château before or after exploring the Gagauz steppe.
Top things to do: Purcari
Cellar tour
Guided visits lead through the historic vaulted cellars where barrels and the estate’s old vintages are kept, with an explanation of how the wines are made.
Tasting
Tastings range from an introduction to the main labels to wider flights that include the flagship blends Negru de Purcari, Roșu de Purcari and Alb de Purcari.
Lunch among the vines
The château restaurant serves Moldovan and European dishes matched to the wines, with a terrace overlooking the lake and vineyards.
Stay overnight
Rooms at the château let you taste without worrying about the drive, and enjoy the vineyards in the evening and early morning.
How to get to Purcari
- By car, Purcari is roughly two hours from Chișinău via Căușeni and Ștefan Vodă. There is no practical public transport to the estate itself.
- The winery and Chișinău agencies arrange transfers and day tours; reserve tours, tastings and tables in advance.
Insider tips
- Book ahead — tours and tastings run at set times and the hotel is small.
- If you are driving, stay the night or appoint a non-drinking driver.
- Castel Mimi, at Bulboaca east of Chișinău, is an easier château visit if Purcari is too far.
