Abstract:

This paper analyses the growing niche tourism sector of enotourism, more commonly known as wine tourism. This developing industry is, at present, an important and sought out tourism sector world-wide. We first describe this type of tourism activity and what it entails and we present the global present-day situation regarding this form of tourism, including its temporary setback caused by the ongoing global pandemic that has affected the tourism industry as a whole. We then analyze the current development status and visiting opportunities present in the country of Romania. This region of the world is very rich in viticulture potential, because of its wine making history and traditions. Through a research from secondary sources, we present the most important wine tourism destinations (wineries and vineyards), we describe the numerous activities that can be undertaken in these establishments and we catalogue the different types of tourists that engage in these tourism activities. Besides the direct activities related to the wine-making process, we show how this tourism form generates important economic growth for those regions and stimulates further development. Wine tourism in Romania is on the rise and the tradition-rich wine regions are attracting more and more tourists from all around the world, which are willing to pay for the experience of visiting a winery, witnessing the wine-making process and engaging in tasting events.