In case you haven’t read my previous posts (haha!), Moldova is well known in the region as one of the best wine-producing countries in the East European region.

The second winery that we visited during our tour arranged by Winetours Moldova was Asconi Winery, where we experienced the rural vibe of Moldova - from the accommodation, food, hospitality, and everything!

When we arrived, we were welcomed by Diana, a winery tour guide and certified Wine Technologist. To let you know, Moldova has its own school of professional winemaking, where she studied to become a legit winemaker.

After an hour of settling in our traditionally constructed thatched-roof cottage, we met Diana and Mika, one of the winery family owners, for a tour of the winery.

In contrast to the restaurants and hotel cottages traditional style, the winery uses all of the latest Italian equipment and machinery to produce the best wine possible, as naturally as possible.

Several restaurant spaces can accommodate up to 800 people at once, and every area feels homely and personal.

Before our dinner, we were taught how to make "Placinta," a type of baked crispy pastry filled with fresh cottage cheese cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven.

Our dinner was a 6-course wine pairing where we experienced the best Asconi wines. It was all matched perfectly with traditional Moldovan cuisine like cottage cheese with sour creme, Placinta, homemade dumplings, grilled pork sausage, lamb stew, and sour cherry dumplings.

We even tried their unique Cabernet Sauvignon Ice Wine! The whole meal was an incredible way to experience and feel the Moldovan culture!

In the morning, after sleeping incredibly well, Jonny served us a delicious breakfast served with fresh coffee and local meats and cheese.