Mileștii Mici Winery Travel Guide

Mileștii Mici Winery, located in the village of Mileștii Mici, is a unique and captivating destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike. Established in 1969, this Moldovan winery is renowned for its extensive underground cellars, which stretch over 200 kilometers, with 55 kilometers currently in use. These cellars are not just storage spaces; they form an actual underground city dedicated to wine.The history of Mileștii Mici is intertwined with the region's geological past. The tunnels were initially limestone mines. Recognizing the consistent humidity (85-95%) and temperature (12-14°C or 54-57°F) provided by the limestone galleries, the mines were converted into wine cellars. These conditions are perfect for storing and maturing high-quality wines, some of which are cellared for decades before being sold.In 2005, Mileștii Mici was registered in the Guinness World Records as the world's biggest wine collection. The complex holds nearly 2 million bottles, with over 70% being red wines, 20% white wines, and about 10% dessert wines. The wines are made from various grapes, including Pinot, Traminer, Muscat, Riesling, and others.A visit to Mileștii Mici offers a unique experience. Tourists can explore the underground galleries by electric train, car, or bicycle, passing rows of barrels filled with aging wine. The tour often includes a visit to the "Golden Collection," where the most valuable wines are stored. The experience culminates in a tasting of the winery's premium wines, often paired with traditional Moldovan appetizers.