If you’re planning a weekend getaway in Moldova, there’s no better way to experience the country than by exploring its rich and diverse wine culture. Moldova, a country nestled between Romania and Ukraine, boasts a long tradition of wine production, with many of its wine cellars regarded as some of the finest in the world. For wine lovers, a trip to Moldova is incomplete without a visit to its iconic underground wine cellars. These wine cellars are not just places to store wine but have become a part of the country’s rich cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll guide you through the Moldova underground wine cellars, all of which are within easy reach of Chișinău, the country’s capital.
Cricova Winery: The Underground Wine City
No visit to Moldova’s wine scene would be complete without a stop at Cricova Winery. Located only 15-20 kilometers north of Chișinău, Cricova is one of the most famous wine cellars in Moldova. What makes Cricova stand out is its vast underground labyrinth. In fact, Cricova is home to over 120 kilometers of tunnels, making it one of the largest and most unique wine cellars in the world. These tunnels form an underground city of sorts, with streets named after wine varieties such as Cabernet, Feteasca, and Riesling. It’s in these very tunnels where millions of bottles of wine are kept in perfect conditions, aging to perfection.
Cricova is particularly renowned for its production of sparkling wine, made using the “Méthode Traditionnelle,” the same method used in Champagne production. The winery has hosted numerous world leaders and celebrities, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. A tour of Cricova offers a fascinating glimpse into the winemaking process, with highlights including the National Vinotheque, where you can view rare wines from historical figures such as Hermann Göring, and the Wine Maturation Section, where you can learn about how sparkling wines are produced. You can also take a ride through the underground tunnels on an electric train and enjoy a tasting of Cricova’s finest wines, including a selection of sparkling wine served with snacks like nuts, biscuits, and aperitifs.
For those planning a visit, it’s recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer. Cricova’s popularity means that tours can fill up quickly. A visit typically lasts about 4 hours, and the temperature in the underground tunnels remains a constant 12-14°C, so make sure to bring a jacket.
Mileștii Mici: The Guinness World Record Holder
If you want to be awed by sheer scale, Mileștii Mici is an absolute must-visit. Located around 30 kilometers south of Chișinău, Mileștii Mici holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine cellar in the world. With over 200 kilometers of underground galleries and more than 2 million bottles of wine, this place is nothing short of spectacular. The wine cellar extends as deep as 85 meters underground, and walking through it is like stepping into another world. The “Golden Collection” contains some of the oldest and most prized wines in the country, with bottles dating back to 1968.
During your visit to Mileștii Mici, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the tunnels by electric train, taking in the vast expanse of underground storage where millions of bottles rest. The scale of the operation is awe-inspiring, and it’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder as you walk through these underground halls that seem to stretch on endlessly. A tour includes a tasting of three Moldovan wines—dry white, dry red, and a vintage dessert wine—accompanied by delicious appetizers such as prosciutto crudo, salami, and breadsticks. As a special treat, you’ll also receive a complimentary bottle of wine as a gift to take home.
Mileștii Mici is an incredibly popular destination, so it’s advisable to book your tour at least 2 days in advance. Like Cricova, the temperature inside the wine cellars remains cool, so wearing warm clothing is essential. A typical visit lasts around 3.5-4 hours, including transportation. As this is one of the most visited wine cellars in the world, it’s highly recommended to make reservations early to avoid disappointment.
Castel Mimi: The Fairytale Château
For a completely different wine experience, Castel Mimi in the village of Bulboaca offers a combination of beautiful architecture and exceptional wines. Often ranked among the world’s 15 most beautiful wineries, Castel Mimi is a stunning European-style château that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Built in the late 19th century by Constantin Mimi, the last governor of Bessarabia, the castle sits on a picturesque estate with manicured gardens and stunning stone facades. The estate’s history is as fascinating as its architecture, with the first vines being planted by Mimi himself in 1893. Today, the winery continues to produce exceptional wines, blending tradition with modern winemaking techniques.
A tour of Castel Mimi offers a chance to explore the ancient stone cellars, where rows of oak barrels rest in silence. You’ll also be able to admire the Presidents’ Wine Collection, which features wines once enjoyed by global leaders. The grounds of the estate are equally enchanting, with beautifully decorated inner courtyards, a hedge maze, and even musical fountains. The winery’s modern production facilities sit alongside the historic family areas, creating a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new.
During your visit, you’ll be treated to a tasting of 4-5 wines paired with canapés and small bites. The château’s atmosphere is perfect for photography, with breathtaking views of the vineyards and the surrounding landscape. Castel Mimi also has an on-site restaurant, making it a great spot for a delicious meal after your wine tour.
For those looking to extend their experience, Castel Mimi offers an overnight stay in its spectacular rooms, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the fairytale atmosphere of the estate. A visit to Castel Mimi typically lasts around 3-4 hours, and it’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Chișinău.
Which Winery Should You Choose?
Each of these best moldovan wine cellars offers something unique, making it difficult to choose just one. If you’re looking for a truly spectacular underground experience, Cricova’s underground city of tunnels and sparkling wine prestige should be at the top of your list. If sheer size and scale fascinate you, Mileștii Mici with its Guinness World Record-setting collection is a must-see. Finally, for those who appreciate stunning architecture and a romantic setting, Castel Mimi offers a fairytale-like experience that combines beauty and wine in perfect harmony.
If you have time, consider visiting all three wineries. Each one tells a different chapter of Moldova’s wine story—from the vast underground cellars to the fairy-tale château. To get a true sense of the country’s legendary wine scene, visiting these three wineries in one weekend will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Moldova’s wine heritage.
For more information about planning your wine-tasting holiday in Moldova, visit Moldova Tours. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique weekend getaway, Moldova’s wine cellars are waiting to offer you an unforgettable experience.
