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Mileștii Mici Winery: An Underground Wine City

Explore the world's largest wine cellar at Mileștii Mici, Moldova, and discover a unique underground city of exquisite wines and rich history.

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Descend into the depths of Mileștii Mici, Moldova, home to the world's largest wine cellar, a subterranean city boasting over 2 million bottles. Explore its vast limestone tunnels, originally mines, now transformed into the ideal environment for aging exquisite wines since 1969. A visit promises a unique journey through Moldovan winemaking history and culture.

A brief summary to Mileștii Mici Winery

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Wear warm clothing as the temperature in the underground cellars remains constant at 12-14°C (54-57°F).
  • Consider bringing your own transportation or using a taxi, as public transport options can be limited.
  • Take advantage of the wine tasting sessions to sample a variety of Mileștii Mici's premium wines.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of other local attractions in Moldova for a more complete experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chișinău, take the direct bus from Chișinău Bus Station to Mileștii Mici. Buses depart approximately every 20 minutes, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. The bus will drop you off near the winery. A single fare costs approximately $1-2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Chișinău, a taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Yandex Taxi or iTaxi) is a convenient option. The ride to Mileștii Mici Winery typically takes around 20 minutes. Expect to pay between $4 and $6 for the trip.

  • Driving

    Driving from Chișinău to Mileștii Mici Winery is straightforward. The winery is located approximately 14 km from Chișinău. Follow the road to Mileștii Mici village and then follow the signs to the winery. Parking is available near the winery. Be aware that during events, parking may be limited, so arriving early is advisable.

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Discover more about Mileștii Mici Winery

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.

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