VIP Rooms

Overview

Deep beneath the unassuming landscape north of Chișinău, Moldova, lies an extraordinary subterranean world: Cricova Winery. This vast 'wine city' is not merely a production facility but a cultural landmark, renowned for its extensive network of tunnels, impressive wine collection, and unique tasting experiences. Within this remarkable complex, the 'VIP Rooms' stand out as exquisitely designed tasting halls, each offering a distinct ambiance for savoring Moldova's finest wines. These special rooms are integral to the premium visitor experience, transforming a simple wine tasting into an immersive journey through history, art, and viniculture.

Cricova's underground galleries stretch for an astonishing 120 kilometers, with some sections reaching depths of 80 meters. It houses an Oenoteca, a national wine collection of over 1.3 million bottles, some dating back to 1902.

History & Cultural Background

The origins of Cricova's 'underground city' date back to the 15th century, when limestone was quarried from these tunnels for the construction of Moldova's capital, Chișinău. It wasn't until 1952 that these vast caverns were repurposed, becoming the ideal conditions for wine storage and maturation due to their constant temperature of 12-14°C and high humidity. In 2003, the Moldovan Parliament officially recognized Cricova Winery as a National Cultural Heritage site, cementing its profound importance to the country's identity and winemaking tradition. This designation highlights not just its scale, but its role in preserving Moldovan heritage and showcasing its winemaking prowess to the world. The winery is also a pioneer in Moldova for producing sparkling wine using the traditional Méthode Traditionnelle, a complex process involving secondary fermentation in the bottle, similar to French Champagne.

What Makes It Special

What truly elevates the Cricova experience, especially within its 'VIP Rooms,' is the blend of natural wonder, historical gravitas, and artistic craftsmanship. The winery features five uniquely decorated underground tasting halls: The European Hall, Casa Mare, The Sea Bottom Hall, The Presidential Hall, and The Fireplace Hall. Each hall possesses its own character, meticulously designed with stained glass windows, tapestries, and wooden sculptures crafted by Moldovan artisans.

For instance, The Sea Bottom Hall symbolically recreates the ancient Sarmatian Sea that once covered the region millions of years ago, featuring an unprocessed limestone ceiling and aquatic decor. The Presidential Hall, on the other hand, is designed with state visits in mind, having hosted numerous dignitaries over the years. These distinct environments offer more than just a place to taste wine; they are carefully curated spaces that enhance the sensory experience and tell a part of Cricova's story. The VIP tours often include an extensive tasting of up to nine types of wine, accompanied by local delicacies, ensuring a comprehensive and luxurious immersion into Moldovan viniculture.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Cricova is brimming with captivating stories and details that bring its history to life. One famous anecdote involves Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, who, during a visit in 1966, reportedly became so engrossed in the wine that he got lost in the labyrinthine tunnels and had to be assisted out the next day. A tasting room is said to be named in his honor. Another compelling aspect is the National Oenoteca's collection of rare wines, including the sole surviving bottle of 'Easter Jerusalem' red wine from 1902, and part of Nazi Field Marshal Hermann Göring's personal wine collection, brought to Cricova after World War II. The sheer scale of the underground network is impressive, with its 'streets' and 'avenues' named after the wine varieties they store, such as Cabernet and Sauvignon, complete with road signs and traffic lights, creating a true 'underground city' feel.

Visitor Perspective

Descending into Cricova is like stepping into another world. The journey through the cool, dimly lit tunnels in an electric 'wine train' provides a sense of anticipation and wonder. Visitors are guided through vast maturing sections filled with oak barrels, the sparkling wine production area where bottles undergo Méthode Traditionnelle, and the awe-inspiring National Collection. The climax of this underground adventure is undoubtedly the tasting experience in one of the exquisite VIP halls. Here, surrounded by unique artistry and the quiet hum of history, travelers connect not just with the flavors of Moldovan wine but with centuries of tradition and the passionate craftsmanship that defines Cricova. It's an intimate encounter with a national treasure, leaving a lasting impression of Moldova's rich winemaking legacy and warm hospitality.