Catleya Wine Estate

History of Catleya Wines

Catleya Wine Estate is nestled in the picturesque Corcova region of Mehedinți, Romania, on land that once belonged to the diplomatic prince Anton Bibescu. Over a century ago, Bibescu relished the exceptional wines from this terroir, sharing them with friends in Bucharest and Paris. Notably, the famous author Marcel Proust drew inspiration from Bibescu, incorporating his essence into a character in the acclaimed novel "In Search of Lost Time." In this literary work, the Catleya orchid symbolizes love and pleasure. Since 2007, a trio of French wine enthusiasts, including oenologist Laurent Pfeffer, has revitalized the vineyards on Bibescu's historic estate. They have embraced the spirit of Proust, crafting exquisite wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the land. Visitors are warmly welcomed to the Catleya estate for a memorable winery tour and wine tasting experience amidst the lush vines.

Terroir of Corcova

The Corcova wine region, located at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, is celebrated for producing some of Romania's finest wines. The region's balanced climate and rocky soil contribute to the creation of wines with rich, complex flavors. The vineyards thrive on a mix of clay, sandy, and sandstone soils, enriched with small amounts of chalk, resulting in full-bodied wines with natural acidity that enhances their longevity. The climate plays a crucial role in grape cultivation, with cool summers and moderate winters providing an ideal environment for vine growth. This climate balance helps protect the vines from late-season frost and pest infestations, ensuring a healthy grape harvest. Wine lovers will appreciate the distinctive qualities that the Corcova region imparts to each bottle produced at Catleya Wine Estate.