Winery Museum

Overview

Deep beneath the rolling hills just 15 kilometers north of Chișinău, Moldova, lies an extraordinary subterranean world known as Cricova Winery. More than just a winery, it houses an impressive 'Winery Museum' within its vast network of underground tunnels. Often described as an 'underground city of wine,' Cricova stands as a testament to Moldova's rich winemaking heritage and ingenuity, attracting curious travelers from around the globe.

History & Cultural Background

The origins of Cricova's remarkable underground complex trace back to the 15th century, when limestone was extracted from these very tunnels to construct Moldova's capital, Chișinău. These extensive caverns lay dormant for centuries until the 1950s when Moldovan winemakers recognized their potential. In 1952, the Cricova Winery was formally established, transforming these ancient quarries into an ideal environment for wine storage and aging. The natural, constant temperatures and high humidity within proved perfect for viticulture. The immense cultural and historical significance of Cricova was officially recognized in 2003 when it was declared a National Cultural Heritage site of the Republic of Moldova.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Cricova's Winery Museum apart is its monumental scale and unique characteristics. It boasts over 120 kilometers of labyrinthine underground roadways, making it the second-largest wine cellar in the world, with approximately 80 kilometers actively used for wine storage. The tunnels reach depths of up to 100 meters below the surface, maintaining a consistent natural temperature of 12-14°C and a humidity of 97-98% year-round—conditions perfectly suited for preserving and maturing high-quality wines. As you navigate this subterranean city, you'll find 'streets' named after the wines stored there, such as 'Cabernet,' 'Chardonnay,' and 'Feteasca,' creating an immersive experience.

The heart of the museum is the National Oenotec, Moldova's national wine collection, which houses an astounding 1.25 to 1.3 million bottles. Among its treasures is the oldest wine in the collection, a bottle of 'Easter Jerusalem' red dessert wine from 1902, and a Jan Becher liqueur from the same year. Another fascinating, albeit somber, highlight is the collection of over 2,000 bottles of wine that once belonged to Hermann Göring, seized as war reparations after World War II. Cricova is also renowned for its sparkling wines, produced using the traditional 'Méthode Traditionnelle,' the same classical French method used in the Champagne region.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Cricova is steeped in captivating stories and legends. One of the most famous tales involves Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, who, during a visit in 1966, reportedly got 'lost' in the vast cellars and re-emerged two days later, jokingly stating it was easier to fly into space than to find his way out. The winery has also played host to numerous world leaders and celebrities; Russian president Vladimir Putin famously celebrated his 50th birthday within these very tunnels. Other notable visitors include Angela Merkel and John Kerry, many of whom maintain their personal wine collections here. The museum section of the winery displays antique tools and equipment used in viticulture and vinification, including wooden presses, crushers, clay amphorae, jugs, and even a barrel cart, offering a glimpse into the historical practices of winemaking. In a nod to its spiritual significance to some, an underground chapel was also opened within the complex in 2019.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to Cricova's Winery Museum is an unforgettable journey. Travelers typically embark on guided tours, often navigating the extensive underground 'streets' aboard mini-trains, allowing them to fully appreciate the immense scale of this wine city. The experience includes exploring the wine aging sections, witnessing the traditional sparkling wine production process, and admiring the National Collection. The tour culminates in one of Cricova's elegant tasting rooms, where visitors can sample a selection of the winery's acclaimed still and sparkling wines. It's an immersive dive into the art, history, and culture of Moldovan winemaking, providing a unique perspective on this cherished national treasure.