Château Purcari ′Nocturne′ Rara Neagra De Purcari 2021, Moldova

The world’s most award-winning winery in 2021, Purcari have bagged 333 gold and silver medals across a huge number of influential wine competitions. But they’re not just some young upstart. An imperial Russian decree in 1827 granted Purcari status as the first specialised winery in Bessarabia. In 1847 they won their first medal and in 1878 snagged gold at the Paris World Fair – a trend that would continue. This ruby-hued number made from local Rară Neagră grapes has pure fruit aromas of sour cherry, blackcurrant and plum, and hints of spice. A satiny texture with every sip, too. Think of it as Moldova’s take on a classic Rhône red.