Cricova Wine Cellars | Cricova

Cricova Wine Cellars is one of the largest and most famous wine cellars in Moldova, renowned for its vast network of underground tunnels and its extensive wine collection. Located just outside Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, Cricova has a long history dating back to 1952 when the cellars were first established. Here are some key details about the cellars:

1. The Cellar Network

Cricova boasts an extensive network of underground tunnels stretching over 120 kilometers (75 miles), making it one of the largest wine cellars in the world. These tunnels are carved into a limestone hill and maintain a perfect temperature and humidity, which makes them ideal for aging wine.

Tunnel Layout: The tunnels are arranged in a grid pattern and go as deep as 60 meters (200 feet) below the surface. Some of these tunnels are named after the types of wines stored in them. The wines are kept in wooden barrels, which are carefully monitored for optimal aging conditions.

Wine Storage: Cricova houses over 1.5 million bottles of wine, some of which are rare and historical vintages. The cellars contain wines of various varieties, including Moldovan, French, Italian, and international wines. The most famous varieties are red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, as well as white wines such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

2. Wine Production

Cricova is not just a storage facility but also an active wine producer. The cellars are known for producing high-quality wines and sparkling wines. The winery specializes in both traditional and modern methods of wine production.

Sparkling Wines: Cricova is particularly known for its production of sparkling wines using the classic "méthode champenoise" (the same method used in Champagne production). The wines undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle to develop their signature effervescence.

Wine Varieties: The estate produces a wide range of wines, including red, white, and sparkling, sourced from both local grape varieties and international ones.

3. Tours and Tastings

Cricova offers guided tours that take visitors through the labyrinth of tunnels, providing insight into the history of winemaking in Moldova and the cellar's operations. Some of the highlights include:

• The Wine Museum: A part of the cellar is dedicated to a wine museum, showcasing the history of Cricova and Moldovan wine culture.
• Wine Tasting Rooms: Visitors have the opportunity to taste a selection of wines produced at Cricova, paired with local Moldovan dishes. The tours are often accompanied by explanations of the wine production process and the unique qualities of the local grape varieties.

The winery also has a VIP tasting room where private tastings and events can be held, making it a popular spot for corporate events and special occasions.

4. Cricova’s Wine Collection

Cricova’s wine collection is not only vast but also includes some extremely rare and valuable bottles, such as:

• Historical Wine Bottles: Cricova is known for its collection of bottles that date back to the 19th century. The most famous of these is a bottle of 1902 champagne that has been preserved in the cellars.
• State-Owned Collection: The Moldovan state owns a large portion of Cricova’s collection, and many of these wines are reserved for special events, state functions, or export to international markets.

5. Cricova’s Role in Moldovan Wine Industry

Cricova plays a crucial role in Moldova’s wine industry. Moldova has a long history of viticulture, dating back to the ancient Dacians, and Cricova is one of the key players in maintaining the country’s reputation for wine production. In addition to wine production and tourism, Cricova contributes to the education of new generations of winemakers and hosts various wine festivals and events.

6. Special Events and Wine Tourism

Cricova is a popular destination for wine tourism, with the cellars serving as a backdrop for numerous cultural events, festivals, and even concerts. The tunnels have even hosted international dignitaries and special ceremonies. Cricova also has a restaurant and event space, where visitors can enjoy Moldovan cuisine while tasting their wines.

7. Global Recognition

Cricova has earned a global reputation for its wines, which are exported to numerous countries worldwide. The cellar has received several awards for the quality of its wines, particularly its sparkling wine collection, which has impressed judges at international competitions.

Overall, Cricova Wine Cellars is a blend of history, tradition, and innovation, offering both a glimpse into Moldova’s rich winemaking heritage and a taste of its future. It's an essential stop for wine enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning more about the country's vibrant wine culture.