Production Areas

Overview

Deep beneath the surface of Cricova, a town just north of Chisinau, Moldova, lies the extraordinary network known as the Production Areas of Cricova Winery. This isn't merely a factory; it's an expansive underground city dedicated to the art of winemaking, carved into ancient limestone quarries. With over 120 kilometers of labyrinthine roadways, approximately 80 kilometers of which are actively used for wine storage and production, it stands as one of the largest wine cellars globally. The production areas are situated at depths ranging from 60 to 100 meters underground, where a naturally stable microclimate prevails. A constant temperature of 12-14°C and a humidity level of 90-98% provide ideal conditions for the fermentation, aging, and maturation of high-quality wines, free from external fluctuations. Cricova is particularly renowned for its sparkling wines, produced using the traditional Méthode Champenoise, and also crafts a diverse range of still red, white, and sweet wines from both indigenous Moldovan and international grape varieties.

History & Cultural Background

The origins of Cricova's underground city date back to the 15th century, when the tunnels were initially excavated for limestone, a material vital for constructing Chisinau. It wasn't until 1952 that these vast caverns were ingeniously repurposed and the Cricova Winery was formally established. This transformation marked a pivotal moment in Moldovan winemaking, leveraging the tunnels' natural conditions for wine storage and production. In 2003, the entire complex was officially designated a National Cultural Heritage site of the Republic of Moldova, underscoring its immense historical and cultural significance. Cricova was also the first enterprise in Moldova to adopt the complex and prestigious Méthode Traditionnelle for producing sparkling wines, a technique that requires secondary fermentation directly in the bottle.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Cricova's Production Areas apart is their integration within a colossal underground city. The subterranean roadways are famously named after the wine varieties they house, such as Cabernet, Chardonnay, Feteasca, and Sauvignon, creating a living map for visitors. This unique 'city' includes not only wine storage but also dedicated production facilities, warehouses, and tasting rooms, all operating deep beneath the earth. The natural microclimate, maintained by the limestone environment without artificial conditioning, is crucial for developing the wines' distinct qualities. The production of sparkling wine is a meticulous process, with secondary fermentation occurring in bottles that are then manually riddled—a technique where specialists, known as 'remueurs', can turn tens of thousands of bottles daily to settle sediments. Beyond current production, Cricova also houses the National Oenotheque, a prestigious collection of approximately 1.3 million bottles, including some dating back to 1902 and historic wines acquired as war reparations.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Production Areas are steeped in captivating tales and local lore. Legend has it that Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin once entered the cellars in 1966 and re-emerged (with assistance) two days later, captivated by its charms. More recently, Russian president Vladimir Putin chose this unique setting to celebrate his 50th birthday. These stories add a layer of intrigue to the already impressive scale of the winery. Another poignant anecdote, though mentioned in fewer sources, speaks of the tunnels providing refuge to Jewish people in wine barrels during the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union. The sheer scale is astounding: the cellars are so vast they are still actively growing, with limestone extraction continuing in some branches.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to Cricova's Production Areas offers an immersive journey into the heart of Moldovan winemaking. Tourists traverse the underground 'streets' aboard charming electric mini-trains, making the exploration both comfortable and memorable. The guided tours provide insights into the winemaking process, from the maturation of still wines in oak barrels and large metal vats to the intricate production of sparkling wines. Visitors get to witness the riddling process and understand the dedication involved in creating Cricova's celebrated sparkling varieties. Beyond the active production zones, tours often include stops at the underground cinema for a historical film, a museum showcasing winemaking tools, and even a beautifully carved underground chapel. The experience culminates in elegant tasting rooms, often themed and located dozens of meters underground, offering a chance to sample Cricova's diverse portfolio in a truly unique atmosphere.