1953
WHERE THE STORY BEGAN
In 1953, a modern winery was established in the Valul lui Traian region, whose wines became known, in the following decades, across Moldova and throughout the Soviet Union for their quality. Today, this legacy is preserved in the winery's historic collection, which includes Trifești 1970, Auriu 1972, and Grătiești 1973.
1985-1990
A Time of Restriction
Between 1985 and 1990, the Soviet anti-alcohol campaign severely impacted the wine industry. Vineyards were uprooted, production declined sharply, and the winery, like many others in the area, was deeply affected.
1991
A new country
The dissolution of the Soviet Union marked the birth of the independent Republic of Moldova and the beginning of a new chapter for the country. The transition from a centrally planned system to a market economy brought profound political, economic and social changes. For the wine industry, it meant adapting to new realities, rebuilding commercial relationships and redefining its identity in an increasingly competitive international market.
1999
A new beginning
Acquired by the Dulgher family in 1999, the winery entered a new chapter through extensive investments, including renovated cellars, modern winemaking equipment, oak barrels, and new vineyards.
1999-2025
Modernising the winery
Over the following decades, the estate was continuously modernised through investments in the winery, underground cellars, state-of-the-art equipment, vineyards, and sustainable practices, while preserving its character and tradition.
2002
Planting the estate vineyards
In 2002, the winery planted its first vineyards in Romanovca and Filipeni, in the Valul lui Traian wine region. The sites were selected by experts from Moldova's National Institute of Vine and Wine for each grape variety.
2009
The birth of the gitana brand
In 2009, the estate introduced the Gitana brand. While preserving the winery's heritage, the new identity reflected its ambition to build a modern, internationally recognised wine brand.
2011
The first gitana wines
The year 2011 marks the emergence of the first series of bottled wines under the Gitana trademark. This collection contains matured dry wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Merlot 2009, Rhein Riesling 2009 and Royal Feteasca 2009.
2011
Opening the first gitana wine shop in Chișinău
In 2011, Gitana Winery opened its first wine shop in Chișinău, creating a dedicated space where customers could discover the estate's complete portfolio.
2012
The first international export
In 2012, Gitana Winery took its first step beyond the borders of the Republic of Moldova with its inaugural export to Canada.
2014
Entering the european market
In 2014, Gitana Winery entered the European market, with Romania becoming its first destination. Sharing a common language, cultural heritage and a growing appreciation for premium wines, Romania became a gateway for the estate's expansion across Europe.
2017
Expanding on the Asian market
In 2017, Gitana Winery expanded to Asian markets and the first exports to Japan, China, and South Korea took place.
2025
Entering the german market
In 2025, Dulgher Family Estate entered the German market, continuing its strategic expansion across Europe.
2025
A new identity rooted in family
The estate embraced a new identity rooted in the Dulgher family. The transition to Dulgher Family Estate reflects a natural evolution, placing the family at the heart of the brand. The new logo, combining the initials D, S, and P, representing Dulgher, Svetlana and Petru symbolises legacy, unity, and continuity.
2025
Opening the Zurich boutique
In 2025, the estate strengthened its international presence with the opening of its first boutique in Zürich, Switzerland. Conceived as more than a wine shop, the boutique offers visitors an opportunity to discover the wines of Dulgher Family Estate through guided tastings, curated selections and a direct connection with the family's philosophy.