OREANDA-NEWS. October 04, 2013. Such decision was taken by the Government of Moldova at the meeting on Wednesday. Grand Prix to Ampelos, producing wines under Et Cetera brand, will be awarded at the National Wine Day for the production of high quality wines, promotion of Moldovan wines of exceptional quality, as well as advancing Moldova’s image at international markets. Ampelos is a private company, founded in 2002.

The company is a member of Small wine producers association, being a pioneer and driving force of small and medium-sized businesses in the wine sector. Ampelos is a modern winery, with grape plantation area over 51 ha. Capital investments in 2002-2013 amounted to 11 million lei, 2 million lei of which were invested in 2012. In 2012 net profit of Ampelos totaled \\$ 1 million lei; net sales - more than 5 million lei. At the same time, 84 % of all products are sold at the domestic market and 16% - are exported.

The quality of wine products has been highly appreciated by local and foreign consumers; the company has received many awards at international competitions and has no debts to the budget. It employs 20 people. Last year, Grand Prix was awarded to Vinaria Purcari and the previous year- to Romanesti. Grand Prix for outstanding achievements in the field of winemaking is a gilded statue depicting a stork flying with a bunch of grapes - a symbol of Moldovan wine.