Château Vartely

Château Vartely was built from 2004 on a hill above Orhei and was among the first Moldovan wineries to set itself up for visitors rather than only for production, with a tasting hall, cellars, a restaurant and cottages among the vines. It works with both international varieties and the local ones Moldova is trying to make its case with, Fetească Neagră and Rara Neagră among them. Orheiul Vechi is a short drive away. The hill it stands on gives a view over the Raut valley, and the site was chosen for that as much as for the ground beneath the vines.

What you actually see

• The tasting hall - the visitor building above the working cellars.
• The local varieties - Fetească Neagră and Rara Neagră among the wines made.
• The vineyard cottages - the accommodation among the vines.
• The Orhei position - a short drive from Orheiul Vechi.

When to go

April to October is the pleasant season. Harvest in September is the busiest and most interesting. Tours run year round with booking.

Honest expectations

The winery is modern with no historic fabric, which disappoints some. Tours must be booked ahead. Prices are high by Moldovan standards.

Nearby

Orheiul Vechi is east, and Curchi Monastery is north.