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Castel Mimi: A Moldovan Wine Renaissance

Discover Moldova's winemaking heritage at Castel Mimi: a historic castle, exquisite wines, and cultural experiences await in Bulboaca.

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Castel Mimi, a stunning architectural monument and winery in Bulboaca, Moldova, offers visitors a journey through the country's rich winemaking history. Founded in 1893 by Constantin Mimi, the castle has been meticulously restored and is now a leading tourist attraction, showcasing both local and international wine varieties amidst beautiful surroundings.

A brief summary to Castel Mimi

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and cellars.
  • Book wine tasting tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or summer to enjoy the blooming vineyards and outdoor activities.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature in the cellars can be cooler than outside.
  • Check the schedule for events and workshops, such as culinary classes or wine-making masterclasses, to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Chișinău's Central Bus Station (Mitropolit Varlaam Street 58), take a bus or minibus heading towards Bulboaca, Șerpeni, Telița, or Gura Bîcului. Ask the driver to confirm they pass near Castel Mimi in Bulboaca. The ticket costs approximately 35 MDL. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Chișinău. A taxi ride to Castel Mimi will take approximately 45 minutes and cost between 200-300 MDL. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt also operate in Chișinău and offer a similar price range.

  • Car

    Driving from Chișinău to Castel Mimi takes about 45 minutes. Follow the R2 national road, which passes through the villages of Anenii Noi district. Parking is available at Castel Mimi. Fuel costs for the round trip will be approximately 100-150 MDL.

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Discover more about Castel Mimi

Castel Mimi, officially called the Winery of the Mimi Family, stands as a beacon of Moldovan winemaking and a significant architectural landmark. Located in the village of Bulboaca, about 38 km from Chișinău, this winery was established in 1893 by Constantin Mimi, a prominent winemaker and diplomat. Inspired by French architectural styles, the castle's design reflects classicism and historicism, making it one of the most beautiful wineries in the world. Mimi, educated in viticulture and winemaking in Montpellier, introduced French grape varieties to Bessarabia, which was then part of the Russian Empire. The castle itself was innovative for its time, being the first building in Moldova constructed with steel-reinforced concrete. The cellars were capable of storing approximately 300,000 liters of wine. After falling into disrepair during the Soviet era, Castel Mimi underwent extensive restoration between 2011 and 2016. Today, it operates with state-of-the-art equipment, producing over half a million bottles of wine annually. Visitors can explore the castle's gardens, historical cellars, and a medieval garden, and enjoy wine tastings, culinary experiences, and even accommodation. The winery also features a restaurant serving Moldovan cuisine, a swimming pool, and hosts events, making it a vibrant tourist destination. Castel Mimi also houses an impressive collection of personalized wine bottles presented as gifts to world leaders and European officials during major events. Castel Mimi not only contributes significantly to Moldova's wine industry but also serves as a cultural center, promoting local customs and traditions. It stands as a testament to Constantin Mimi's legacy and a symbol of Moldova's rich heritage.

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