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Castel Mimi: A Moldovan Wine Renaissance

Discover Moldova's winemaking heritage at Castel Mimi, a beautifully restored chateau offering tours, tastings, and cultural experiences.

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Castel Mimi, a stunning winery and architectural monument in Bulboaca, Moldova, represents a revival of Moldovan winemaking tradition. Founded in 1893 by Constantin Mimi, it blends French inspiration with local terroir, offering tours, tastings, and cultural experiences.

A brief summary to Castel Mimi

Local tips

  • Book tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cellars, gardens, and grounds.
  • Consider visiting during one of Castel Mimi's festivals or events for a unique cultural experience.
  • Allow ample time to explore the entire complex, including the restaurant, hotel, and art gallery.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as cellar temperatures can be cooler than outside.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chișinău, take a bus from the Central Bus Station (Mitropolit Varlaam Street 58) towards Bulboaca, Șerpeni, Telița, or Gura Bîcului. Ensure the bus passes near Castel Mimi in Bulboaca. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. A one-way ticket costs around 35 lei.

  • Taxi

    From Chișinău, a taxi ride to Castel Mimi takes approximately 45 minutes. Expect to pay between 200 and 250 lei for the trip.

  • Driving

    Drive from Chișinău on the R2 national road towards Bulboaca. The journey is approximately 40 km and takes around 45 minutes. Free parking is available near Castel Mimi.

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Discover more about Castel Mimi

Castel Mimi, located in the village of Bulboaca, is not just a winery; it's a symbol of Moldova's rich winemaking heritage and a testament to the vision of Constantin Mimi. Established in 1893, this architectural monument stands as Bessarabia's first authentic chateau, drawing inspiration from French winemaking traditions. Mimi, a dedicated winemaker, modernized the industry, and his legacy lives on in the meticulously restored castle and its award-winning wines. The castle's architecture blends classicism and historicism, a reflection of Mimi's studies in Montpellier. Constructed with reinforced concrete, a novelty for its time, the winery was considered a marvel. Following a period of nationalization during the Soviet era, a careful restoration began in 2011, transforming Castel Mimi into a state-of-the-art tourist complex. Reopened in 2016, it now welcomes visitors from around the globe to explore its cellars, vineyards, and unique collections. Today, Castel Mimi offers a range of experiences, including guided tours, wine tastings, and culinary delights. Visitors can explore the historic cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and savor the flavors of Moldova. The complex also features a fine-dining restaurant serving Moldovan and European cuisine, a sustainable boutique hotel, and spaces for events and celebrations. Castel Mimi has become a significant cultural venue, hosting festivals, concerts, and even the European Political Community Summit in 2023.

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