Divin

Origins and history

Distilling wine has a long tradition in the region. The oldest producer still in operation, KVINT in Tiraspol, started in 1897 as a distillery making vodka from grape wine from the surrounding villages, and in 1938 laid down its first wine spirits in casks to age. In the Soviet era such brandy was sold as konyak; the name KVINT itself is a Russian acronym that still contains the word cognac.

Because cognac is a protected French appellation of origin, Moldovan producers use the name divin. That name is now also a protected geographical indication (PGI Divin), managed in the same way as the three wine regions of Codru, Ștefan Vodă and Valul lui Traian. According to the national wine office ONVV, Divin Călărași Legenda VS was the first divin to receive that status.

How it is made

The base is wine from European and local grape varieties grown in Moldova. After distillation the spirit ages for at least three years in contact with oak. The PGI rules recognise four categories: VS (at least 3 years), VSOP (5 years), XO (7 years) and XXO (20 years). For blending, spirits from different casks are combined; the blend then rests in cask for a while longer. The longer the ageing, the darker the colour and the more the wood shapes the flavour.

Where and how to try it

You will find divin in wine shops and supermarkets all over Moldova, from young VS to old reserves sold as gifts. It is usually drunk after a meal, at room temperature in a tulip glass, and it is a popular souvenir to take home. The KVINT distillery is in Transnistria, and in 2026 the Belgian travel advice strongly advises against all travel there.