Presidential Collection

Overview

Deep beneath the unassuming town of Cricova, just north of Chisinau, Moldova, lies an extraordinary subterranean world: the Cricova Winery. Far more than a mere cellar, this 'Underground City' is a national treasure, renowned for its vast labyrinth of tunnels carved from ancient limestone. Spanning approximately 120 kilometers, with some galleries plunging 60 to 100 meters below the surface, it is considered the second-largest wine cellar globally. Within this expansive underground realm resides the revered 'Presidential Collection', a unique assortment of historical and personal wine reserves. It's a place where time seems to stand still, maintaining a constant natural temperature of 12-14 degrees Celsius and high humidity, conditions perfect for the aging and preservation of fine wines.

Visitors to Cricova are invited on a remarkable journey through illuminated 'streets' named after the wines they house, leading to impressive tasting halls and, most notably, the National Oenotheque. This impressive collection is not only a testament to Moldova's rich winemaking heritage but also a repository of fascinating stories and global connections, drawing presidents, dignitaries, and wine enthusiasts from around the world.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Cricova Winery began in 1952, transforming former limestone mining galleries into the grand wine repository we see today. The very stone used to build Moldova's capital, Chisinau, created these vast underground spaces, which were soon recognized for their ideal microclimate for wine maturation. Over the decades, Cricova grew in prominence, earning the distinction of being declared a National Cultural Heritage object of the Republic of Moldova in 2003.

Moldovan winemaking itself boasts an ancient history, with its favorable climate and fertile lands yielding grapes for millennia. Cricova quickly established itself as a pioneer, notably becoming the first and largest producer of sparkling wine in Moldova using the classical French method, known as 'Méthode Traditionnelle'. This commitment to traditional techniques, coupled with an unparalleled storage environment, solidified Cricova's reputation as a custodian of vinicultural excellence and a symbol of Moldovan national pride.

What Makes It Special

The 'Presidential Collection' at Cricova is distinguished by its sheer volume and the historical significance of its contents. It houses approximately 1.3 million bottles, forming part of the National Oenotheque, with specimens collected from various corners of the world. What truly sets it apart are the private wine collections belonging to numerous famous personalities and world leaders. Each visit by a dignitary often results in the dedication of a personal collection space, complete with a custom placard, making it a living archive of international diplomacy and personal taste.

Among its most unique treasures are bottles like the 'Jewish Easter Wine' or 'Easter Jerusalem' from 1902, a red dessert wine considered the only surviving bottle from its original batch. Another notable entry is the 1902 'Jan Becher' liqueur. The collection is not merely about age; it's about the stories embedded within each bottle, reflecting moments in history and the preferences of influential figures.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The 'Presidential Collection' is rich with anecdotes. Perhaps one of the most intriguing is the section dedicated to Hermann Göring's private wine hoard. Following World War II, over 2,000 bottles, confiscated by the Nazi general from various occupied European regions, found their way to Cricova after being retrieved by Soviet soldiers. This collection includes Bordeaux, Mosel, Porto, Tokay, and Chablis wines, all dating back to the 1940s.

Another famous visitor was Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, who, according to legend, reportedly spent two days lost in the cellars, emerging with 'assistance'. More recently, figures like Vladimir Putin have maintained their own personal wine collections here since 2002, with tales even suggesting a gold-plated buggy is reserved for his visits through the underground 'streets'. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former US Vice Presidents John Kerry and Joe Biden are also among the numerous heads of state and dignitaries who have been honored with their own spaces within this prestigious collection. The 'Presidential Hall' itself, one of the winery's lavish tasting rooms, is specifically designed for high-level meetings and diplomatic events, adorned with art reflecting Moldova's viticultural heritage.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the 'Presidential Collection' at Cricova Winery offers more than just a glimpse into historical wine reserves; it's an immersive cultural experience. Travelers typically explore the vast underground network in specialized electric vehicles, navigating 'streets' with names like Cabernet and Sauvignon, which correspond to the wines stored in adjacent niches.

The journey culminates in one of the beautifully decorated tasting halls, such as the Presidential Hall, where guests can appreciate the artistry of Moldovan winemaking. While the specific wines from the most exclusive 'Presidential Collection' might not be available for general tasting, visitors get to sample Cricova's renowned products, including their exquisite sparkling wines, made using traditional methods. It is highly recommended to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot and choose from various tour packages that often include a guide and wine tasting sessions. The experience provides a unique insight into Moldova's deep connection with wine, its history, and its global diplomatic ties, leaving a lasting impression of this remarkable 'Underground City'.