From Chisinau : Visit 2 Wine Cellars Cricova and Milestii Mici Wineries

Uncork the Legacy of Cricova: A Journey into Moldova’s Underground Wine City

Embark on a captivating expedition just 14 kilometers north of Chișinău to discover one of Moldova’s most celebrated treasures: the legendary Cricova Winery. Nestled in a charming and picturesque setting, this isn’t just a winery—it’s a magnificent underground citadel dedicated to the art of winemaking. Founded in 1952, Cricova has earned a global reputation for excellence, transforming its vast limestone labyrinths into a sanctuary for some of the world’s most exquisite wines.

Your adventure begins with a fascinating private guided tour through the heart of this subterranean marvel. You’ll traverse the quiet, cool streets of this unique “wine city,” where avenues are named after the very vintages they guard. Explore the impressive Wine Maturation Section, where countless barrels cradle aging wines in perfect silence. Witness the traditional magic of the Classic Sparkling Wine Production Section, learning the meticulous méthode champenoise process that gives Cricova’s sparkling wines their celebrated effervescence. The tour culminates at the elegant National Collection and Tasting Complex, a testament to the winery’s prestigious standing.

Following this immersive exploration, it’s time to delight your senses with a curated tasting session. You’ll sample four of Cricova’s finest wines, including one of their renowned sparkling wines, each sip telling a story of the region’s rich terroir. This exquisite tasting is perfectly complemented by a plate of authentic local snacks, designed to enhance the nuanced flavors of each pour.

Yet, the wonders of Moldovan viniculture run even deeper. Wine culture is so profoundly woven into the nation’s heritage that Cricova’s astounding 120 kilometers of tunnels are not even the most extensive. That crown belongs to the Mileștii Mici winery, home to the largest wine cellar on Earth, with a staggering labyrinth stretching over 200 kilometers. Located approximately 20 kilometers south of Chișinău, this otherworldly complex maintains a constant, ideal climate of 12-14°C year-round, safeguarding a priceless collection exceeding 2 million bottles.

Your experience at Mileștii Mici is a grand finale of flavor. You will be invited to pair three distinguished wines—a crisp dry white, a robust dry red, and a luxurious vintage dessert wine—with a sumptuous, artisanally crafted platter. Savor the combination with Prosciutto crudo, delicate salami, fine carpaccio, crunchy breadsticks, roasted nuts, and sweet local prunes. It’s a harmonious conclusion to a day spent deep within the earth, celebrating the liquid heart and historic soul of Moldova.