"For special products, like Lacrima lui Ovidiu, sales have doubled. We are counting on 15 percent growth in sales over last year,” according to a statement for Business Standard by Daniel Negrescu, Brand Manager of Murfatlar. Negrescu added that sales are highest around Christmas and the New Year. “More than 50 percent of annual sales take place from September through December,” added the Brand Manager.

The Romanian wine market is estimated at €450 million. Main producers are Murfatlar, Jidvei, Cotnari and Vincon. According to Murfatlar officials, the company claims about half of the red wine market.

For 2008 the company estimates revenues worth €50 million, compared to €42 mln this year. Profit is usually 10 percent.

Murfatlar has 3,000 hectares and plans to invest €2.4 mln in 2008.