Crâmpoșie Selecţionatӑ is a white grape that was propagated from a hybridizing Crâmpoșie and Gordon. Crâmpoșie is an ancient grape variety from the Drӑgӑșani region of Romania. It is an autosterile variety that relied upon the Gordon grape variety for pollination. These vines were co-planted to maximize yields. Crâmpoșie Selecţionatӑ managed to survive phylloxera but produced bunches with uneven grape size. This can result in under and overripe fruit, a decreased volume of juice, and varied levels of quality. Crâmpoșie Selecţionatӑ has a far more consistent yield. As a result, vineyards have been replanted with this variety. It is known to produce aromatic wines with high levels of acidity. This grape is usually used for dry still wines, both low and higher quality, but some producers are experimenting with sparkling wines also.
This week, I had a 2023 Olterra Drӑgӑșani Crâmpoșie Selecţionatӑ. This wine is a pale yellow color with brassy and light green highlights. It has pronounced aromatics of pears, green apples, lemon pith, lemon balm, wet stone, and under ripe pineapple. I could smell this wine without trying when I walked across the room with my glass. On the palate, this dry still wine has a high level of acidity with a moderate body and alcohol content. The citrus and tree fruit notes are just as evident in the mouth as they are in the glass and slowly fade on the long finish. I was surprised at how vivacious this wine was! I had to special order it from the Romanian wine importer but once she told me about it, I couldn’t resist trying it! This wine would be great on a warm summer day as an aperitif, with a light salad, grilled fish, or a cheese plate to wind down after a busy day of yard work!
-TheLooseTannin
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