Cricova Winery: An Underground Wine City

Cricova Winery, a Moldovan treasure, is more than just a winery; it's an underground city dedicated to the art of winemaking. Founded in 1952, the winery repurposed former limestone mines into a sprawling network of cellars, now stretching over 120 kilometers. These tunnels, some reaching 80 meters below ground, create the ideal climate for aging wines, maintaining a constant temperature of 12°C (54°F).A visit to Cricova is a journey through a subterranean metropolis. The 'streets' bear names like Cabernet, Feteasca, and Sauvignon, reflecting the wines stored within. Visitors explore the cellars via electric train, discovering the National Oenotec, a collection of nearly 1.3 million bottles of wine. The collection includes rare vintages and personal collections of world leaders and celebrities.Cricova is celebrated for producing sparkling wine using the traditional French method, 'Méthode Traditionnelle'. This involves secondary fermentation in the bottle, a technique that gives Cricova's sparkling wines their distinctive character. The winery also boasts a museum showcasing the history of winemaking, a chapel carved into the stone, and tasting rooms designed to enhance the wine-tasting experience. Cricova is not only a winery but also a national cultural heritage site, drawing wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.Visitors can choose from various tours, some including wine tastings in uniquely decorated halls like the European Hall, Casa Mare, and the Presidential Hall. These tours offer insights into Moldovan winemaking and the chance to sample Cricova's finest wines.