Cricova Winery: Moldova's Subterranean Wine Wonderland

Discover Cricova Winery in Moldova, a captivating underground network of wine cellars offering guided tours, tastings, and a rich history of winemaking.

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Cricova Winery

Cricova Winery is one of Moldova's most fascinating attractions. Located just a short drive from the capital, Chisinau, Cricova is famed for its extensive underground wine cellars. These cellars stretch for over 120 kilometers and are home to a vast collection of wines, some of which date back to World War II. The cool, constant temperatures of the cellars provide the perfect environment for aging wine, making Cricova a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. Visitors to Cricova can take guided tours through the labyrinthine corridors, where they will learn about the history and process of winemaking. The winery is known for its sparkling wines, which are made using the traditional Champenoise method. Along the way, you'll see vast wine barrels, elegant tasting rooms, and even a small cinema where documentaries about the winery's history are shown. Cricova is not just about wine; it's an experience that combines history, culture, and craftsmanship. The cellars house a wine museum, showcasing the evolution of winemaking in Moldova. The Great National Assembly Room within the cellars is a sight to behold, often used for important state events and visits by dignitaries. A visit to Cricova offers a glimpse into Moldova's rich winemaking heritage and promises an unforgettable journey beneath the earth's surface.

Local tips in Cricova Winery

Book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves a fair amount of walking.
Don't miss the sparkling wine tasting; it's one of Cricova's specialties.
Bring a light jacket as the cellars can be quite cool, even in summer.
Check if there are any special events or concerts happening in the cellars during your visit.

File:Rhone 1938 wine - Cricova winery, Cricova, Moldova.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Cricova State Winery (38108339585).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Cricova Winery?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Beciurile Cricova

Explore the enchanting Cricova Cellars, home to Moldova’s finest wines, a rich history, and breathtaking underground tunnels.

Combinatul de Vinuri „Cricova”

Explore the underground marvels of Cricova Winery, where wine meets history in Moldova's enchanting subterranean cellars.

Cricova moldova

Unveil the secrets of Cricova, Moldova's enchanting underground wine cellars and immerse yourself in a unique blend of history and exquisite wines.

Unmissable attractions to see

Aventura Park

Discover the excitement of Aventura Park in Chișinău, Moldova, a family-friendly theme park offering thrilling rides and enchanting landscapes.

Building of The National Art Museum

Explore the National Art Museum in Chișinău, a cultural hub showcasing Moldova's rich artistic heritage and international masterpieces.

Oak of Stephen the Great in Scoreni

Discover the historic Oak of Stephen the Great in Scoreni, a majestic landmark reflecting Moldova's rich heritage and cultural significance.

World's biggest barrel

Explore the World's Biggest Barrel in Scoreni, Moldova - a stunning symbol of craftsmanship and local culture, perfect for your travel itinerary.

Picnic place

Experience the tranquility of nature at Căpriana's picnic place, a perfect escape for relaxation and outdoor gatherings.

Parcul Național Orhei

Explore Parcul Național Orhei, a stunning park in Moldova with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.

Essential places to dine

Beciurile Cricova

Explore Beciurile Cricova Winery: A Journey Through Moldova's Rich Winemaking Heritage and Exquisite Tasting Experiences.

Combinatul de Vinuri „Cricova”

Explore Cricova Winery: A Unique Underground Wine Adventure in Moldova's Rich Wine Heritage.

Cricova

Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine and exceptional wines at Cricova, a premier restaurant in Tiraspol offering a unique taste of local culture.

Giowine Hotel & Restaurant

Discover luxury at Giowine Hotel & Restaurant in Cricova - where exquisite dining meets elegant accommodations amidst stunning landscapes.

Pizzeria * AIOLI *

Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Pizzeria Aioli in Cricova—where every slice tells a story.

Terasa Regatul Vinului

Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine and exquisite wines at Terasa Regatul Vinului in Cricova - a delightful gem for food lovers.

Sala prezidențială de degustare Cricova

Explore Cricova's Presidential Tasting Room: A Wine Lover’s Paradise Offering Exquisite Flavors and Rich Moldovan Heritage.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Beciurile Cricova

Discover the hidden gem of Moldova at Beciurile Cricova Winery, where history meets fine wine in breathtaking underground tunnels.

Mega Alina Discounter

Explore Mega Alina Discounter in Stăuceni, Moldova, for a complete range of affordable home goods and a taste of local shopping culture.

Ocean Fish

Experience the finest selection of fresh seafood at Ocean Fish in Măgdăceşti, where quality meets sustainability in every bite.

Combinatul de Vinuri „Cricova”

Experience the magic of Cricova Winery in Moldova, where exquisite wines and captivating history await every visitor.

Invino Enoteca

Explore Invino Enoteca in Chișinău for an exquisite selection of wines, local charm, and unforgettable tasting experiences.

Cricova - Wine Shop

Discover the enchanting world of Moldovan wines at Cricova, where tradition meets taste in the heart of Chișinău.

Market Family

Explore the cultural richness of Moldova at Market Family, a local store offering unique crafts and delicious traditional snacks in Stăuceni.

1000 de mărunţişuri Supraten

Explore 1000 de mărunţişuri Supraten, a treasure trove of unique home goods and local crafts in Măgdăceşti, Moldova.

Linella

Explore Linella, a vibrant supermarket in Cricova offering a wide range of local products and flavors for an authentic Moldovan experience.

Cricova Reception and Ticket Office

Experience the rich heritage of Moldovan wines at Cricova Reception and Ticket Office, your gateway to the iconic underground cellars of Cricova Winery.

O'Cafe Drive .Bere Vie - Cvas Natural

Discover the cozy charm of O'Cafe Drive in Cricova, where exceptional coffee meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Sweet Velvet

Discover Sweet Velvet, Cricova's charming dessert shop offering exquisite pastries and rich coffee in a cozy atmosphere perfect for every sweet tooth.

Materiale de constructie

Explore Cricova's Building Materials Store for quality supplies and expert advice on your construction and DIY projects in a charming town setting.

Local

Discover the heart of Cricova with a visit to the local supermarket, a treasure trove of fresh produce and authentic Moldovan flavors.

Cricova moldova

Discover the enchanting underground world of Cricova, Moldova, home to stunning wine cellars and picturesque parks, perfect for every traveler.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Lake House BrewPub

Discover the enchanting Lake House BrewPub in Chișinău, where craft beer meets cozy dining in a vibrant atmosphere.

Brother's Pub

Experience the warmth of Moldovan hospitality at Brother's Pub, where every visit is filled with great food, drinks, and camaraderie.

Rugby House Pub

Discover Rugby House Pub in Chișinău – where great food, refreshing drinks, and sports come together for an unforgettable experience.

Carpe Diem Wine Bar

Experience the best of Moldova's wine culture at Carpe Diem Wine Bar, where every sip tells a story.

Giowine Hotel & Restaurant

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and exquisite dining at Giowine Hotel & Restaurant in Cricova, Moldova.

Berăria De La Răscruce(Livrare bere In Keg)

Experience the authentic taste of Moldova at Berăria De La Răscruce - a delightful brewpub offering craft beers and tasty pastries.

Retro Cinema Pub

Discover the retro charm of Chișinău's favorite pub, where classic films and great drinks create an unforgettable experience.

Luca's Pub

Discover the charm of Luca's Pub in Porumbeni, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await you.

Pizzeria * AIOLI *

Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Pizzeria Aioli in Cricova, where every pizza is a masterpiece crafted with love.

Wine Republic Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite wines at Wine Republic Bar, the perfect destination for wine lovers in Chișinău.

D&D Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of D&D Pub in Chișinău, where locals and tourists gather for great drinks and good company.

Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Moldova's favorite lounge, offering a perfect escape for relaxation and socializing.

Sala prezidențială de degustare Cricova

Discover the hidden gem of Cricova, where wine tasting meets history in Moldova's enchanting underground cellars.

Art of Beer

Explore the craft beer scene at Art of Beer in Stăuceni, Moldova, where quality brews and delightful dishes await in a welcoming atmosphere.

Leggo Burger Club

Discover the vibrant flavors of Cricova at Leggo Burger Club, where gourmet burgers and a friendly atmosphere await your visit.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Cricova Winery

Discover Cricova Winery with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Cricova Winery

- HelloSalut
  [sah-LOOT]
- GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah reh-veh-DEH-reh]
- YesDa
  [dah]
- NoNu
  [noo]
- Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [teh rohg]
- Thank youMulțumesc
  [mool-tsoo-MESK]
- Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [skoo-ZA-tsi muh]
- How are you?Ce faci?
  [cheh FAH-chi]
- Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [BEE-neh. shee too]
- Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor-BEE-tsi en-GLEH-zuh]
- I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo uhn-tseh-LEHG]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [uhsh DOH-ree suh vuhd MEH-nyool, vuh rohg]
- I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-NUNK KAR-ne]
- Cheers!Noroc!
  [NOH-rok]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [uhsh DOH-ree suh PLAH-tesk, vuh rohg]
- Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-ZHOO-tohr]
- Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
- Call the Police!Sunați poliția!
  [soo-NAHTs po-LEE-tsee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Sunați un doctor!
  [soo-NAHTs oon DOHK-tohr]
- I'm lostM-am pierdut
  [mahm pyehr-DOOT]
- I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-NAHV]
- I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [uhsh DOH-ree suh KOOM-puhr]
- I'm just lookingDoar mă uit
  [doh-ahr muh OO-eet]
- How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kaht KOHS-tuh]
- That's too expensiveE prea scump
  [eh preh skoomp]
- Can you lower the price?Puteți reduce prețul?
  [poo-TEHTs reh-doo-CHAY PREHTsul]
- What time is it?Cât e ceasul?
  [kaht eh CHEH-ah-sool]
- It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [ehs-teh oh-rah OON-oo]
- Half past (10)Jumătate (la zece)
  [zhoo-muh-TAH-teh (lah ZEH-cheh)]
- MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-nyah-tsa]
- AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-zuh]
- EveningSeara
  [seh-AH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yehr]
- TodayAstăzi
  [ahs-tuhz]
- TomorrowMâine
  [muh-YEH-neh]
- 1Unu
  [OON-oo]
- 2Doi
  [doy]
- 3Trei
  [tray]
- 4Patru
  [PAH-troo]
- 5Cinci
  [cheench]
- 6Șase
  [shah-seh]
- 7Șapte
  [shahp-teh]
- 8Opt
  [opt]
- 9Nouă
  [noo-wuh]
- 10Zece
  [ZEH-cheh]
- Where's a/the...?Unde este...?
  [oon-deh ehs-teh]
- What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [KA-reh ehs-teh ah-DREH-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-TEHTs suh-mee ah-ruh-TAHTs (peh HAR-tuh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kahnd ehs-teh oor-MAH-toh-rool (ow-TOH-booz)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (către ....)
  [oon bee-LET (kuh-treh)]

History of Cricova Winery

Cricova Winery, located in Moldova, traces its origins back to the 15th century when limestone mining started in the region. The extensive labyrinth of tunnels created from the mining activities eventually became the foundation for the winery's vast underground cellars.
In 1952, Cricova Winery was officially established during the Soviet era. The transformation of the tunnels into wine cellars began under the direction of the Soviet government, aiming to utilize the consistent underground temperatures for wine storage and aging.
Cricova is renowned for its sparkling wine production, which began in 1958. The traditional method of producing sparkling wine, known as 'Methode Champenoise,' was adopted, setting Cricova apart as a premier producer of high-quality sparkling wines in the region.
The cellars of Cricova span over 120 kilometers and are situated 80 meters underground. These grand cellars house a vast collection of wine, including the famous 'National Collection,' which contains over one million bottles, some dating back to World War II.
Cricova has hosted numerous dignitaries and celebrities, including Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The winery also houses a private collection of wines belonging to notable figures, such as former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Cricova Winery is not only a significant historical site but also a cultural landmark in Moldova. It plays a vital role in Moldovan wine culture and is a symbol of the country's rich winemaking heritage. The annual wine festivals and events held at Cricova attract visitors from around the globe.
In recent years, Cricova Winery has embraced modernization while preserving its traditional winemaking techniques. The winery continues to innovate, incorporating advanced technology to enhance production and quality, making it a leading figure in the global wine industry.

Cricova Winery Essentials

Cricova Winery is located about 15 kilometers north of Chisinau, the capital of Moldova. The nearest international airport is Chisinau International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to Cricova, which typically takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use public transportation: take a bus or trolleybus to the central bus station in Chisinau, and from there, take a minibus (marshrutka) to Cricova.
Cricova is a small town, and the winery itself is easily walkable once you arrive. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) operate within the town and connect to Chisinau and other nearby areas. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer to explore at your own pace.
The official currency in Moldova is the Moldovan Leu (MDL). Credit cards are accepted at Cricova Winery and in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Cricova and Chisinau, but it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to smaller towns.
Cricova is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Cricova, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good idea.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Cricova has local police and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile and eye contact are also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Cricova Winery like a local, consider taking a guided tour of the underground wine cellars, which are some of the largest in the world. Engage with the winery staff, who are often knowledgeable and passionate about their work. Don't miss the opportunity to taste a variety of local wines and purchase some to take home. Visit the local markets in Cricova for fresh produce and traditional Moldovan goods. Interact with locals, as they are usually friendly and eager to share stories about their town's history and culture.

Cricova Winery: Moldova's Subterranean Wine Wonderland

Local tips in Cricova Winery