Join Sven on His Unforgettable Visit to Cricova Winery in Moldova
Hi, I’m Sven, one of this blog’s owners. In 2022, I visited the Cricova Winery. When I first heard about the Cricova Winery, I was intrigued by the idea of a wine cellar that’s more like an underground city. But nothing prepared me for the magical experience that awaited me when I finally visited this Moldovan gem. Let me take you on a journey through my day at Cricova—a place where history, wine, and wonder come together. When I first heard about Cricova Winery, I was intrigued by the idea of a wine cellar that’s more like an underground city. But nothing prepared me for the magical experience that awaited me when I finally visited this Moldovan gem. Let me take you on a journey through my day at Cricova—a place where history, wine, and wonder come together.
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Arriving at Cricova
Located just 30 minutes outside of Chișinău, the drive to Cricova was scenic, with rolling vineyards and a peaceful countryside vibe. As we approached, the entrance to the winery hinted at the grandeur hidden beneath the surface. Cricova is famous for its labyrinthine underground cellars, stretching over 120 kilometers. I was about to step into a world unlike anything I’d experienced before.
Exploring the Underground City
From the moment I descended into Cricova’s cellars, I was in awe. The tunnels are like a subterranean wonderland, with wide streets named after wine varieties—Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay. It truly felt like stepping into a wine-themed city. The air was cool, the lighting subtle, and the walls were lined with thousands upon thousands of wine bottles, each telling its own story.
Our guide was fantastic, explaining how this underground complex started as a limestone mine and was later transformed into one of the world’s most unique wine storage and production facilities. As someone who loves history, I found it fascinating to learn how these cellars played a role in Moldova’s winemaking legacy.
The Highlights of the Tour
The Presidential Collection: One of the most impressive parts of the tour was seeing Cricova’s private wine collection. This includes rare bottles owned by famous figures, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and astronaut Yuri Gagarin, who celebrated his return from space here. The oldest bottle I saw dated back to 1902!
Sparkling Wine Process: Watching the careful process of making sparkling wine using the traditional “Méthode Champenoise” was a treat. It’s clear that at Cricova, winemaking is both an art and a science.
Tasting the Wines
Then came the part I had been waiting for—wine tasting. Seated in a cozy tasting hall, I sampled a selection of Cricova’s best wines. I started with their sparkling wine, which was crisp, elegant, and refreshing. Their reds, especially the Codru blend, were bold and complex, while the whites had a delicate balance of sweetness and acidity.
The highlight for me was the dessert wine—a golden nectar that was the perfect end to the tasting. Each glass came with expert insights from our guide, who shared the history and characteristics of each wine.
Dining and Shopping
After the tasting, I enjoyed a meal in one of Cricova’s underground banquet halls. The atmosphere was magical, with soft lighting and beautifully set tables. The food was a perfect complement to the wines, showcasing local Moldovan flavors.
Before leaving, I couldn’t resist buying a few bottles to take home. Cricova’s wine shop had exclusive offerings, including limited-edition bottles I couldn’t find elsewhere.
Why Cricova Stole My Heart
Cricova isn’t just a winery—it’s an experience. Walking through its tunnels, learning about its history, and tasting its wines felt like a journey through Moldova’s culture and traditions. The blend of old-world charm and modern winemaking techniques was inspiring, and I left with a newfound appreciation for Moldovan wine.
If you ever find yourself in Moldova, make Cricova a priority. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone who loves exploring unique places, this underground wine city is something you’ll never forget. For me, it was more than a tour—it was a story, a memory, and a toast to the beauty of Moldova.