CRICOVA Winery tour with tasting from Chisinau

Exploring Moldova’s Hidden Gem: The Cricova Winery Tour with Tasting from Chisinau

When it comes to Moldova, most travelers think of charming villages, historic monasteries, and surprisingly good wines. One of the most unforgettable experiences you can have here is a visit to Cricova Winery, located just a few kilometers north of Chisinau. At $229 per person, this private tour offers about four hours of discovery—perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at Moldova’s legendary winemaking heritage.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things: the sheer scale of Cricova’s underground cellars, which stretch for around 120 kilometers, and the personalized experience you get with a private guide. It’s a chance to walk through what feels like a maze of underground streets, each named after different wine varieties like Cabernet, Feteasca, and Pinot, and to taste some truly special wines in a setting that’s unlike any other.

One potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan accordingly if you’re hungry afterward. Still, this experience is ideal for wine lovers and anyone eager to see an underground city of wine, with the comfort of private transportation and a flexible language choice—Russian, Japanese, or English. It’s a perfect fit for curious travelers keen to combine education, authentic flavors, and a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Unique underground city: Wander through 120 km of tunnels, streets, and wine repositories.
• Private tour advantage: Personalized guide and flexible language options enhance the experience.
• High-value tasting: Sample three different high-quality wines in a stunning setting.
• Convenient pickup: Hotel pickup in Chisinau simplifies logistics.
• Limited group size: Maximum of 10 travelers ensures intimacy and attention.
• No lunch included: Plan ahead if you want a meal after the tour.

The Underground City of Cricova: What to Expect

Stepping into Cricova’s underground tunnels is akin to entering a forgotten city of wine. The vast network of tunnels was initially created to store Moldova’s treasured wine bottles but has since become a major tourist attraction. As you go underground, you might feel like Alice venturing into a wine-themed wonderland, with wide streets, underground warehouses, and tasting rooms stretching over impressive distances.

Your host, who might be a personable guide like Juha, will lead you through narrow alleys named after famous wines—Cabernet and Riesling, for example—each lined with bottles and barrels. The cool, humid air and dim lighting lend an old-world charm that transports you far from the hustle of Chisinau.

The highlight here is the sheer scale. Cricova’s cellars are considered the largest in the world—a true underground “city,” with wide streets that can accommodate buses full of travelers. These tunnels are not just storage chambers but are part of Moldova’s cultural tapestry, representing French-style wine technology that’s been preserved here for generations.

The Winemaking Heritage and Tasting Experience

Cricova is renowned for employing strict French champagne technology, making its sparkling wines unique in Moldova—and a highlight of this tour. As you walk past the different wine streets, your guide will explain the history and methods behind each style, providing context that elevates the tasting.

During the tasting segment, you’ll sample three types of wines, carefully selected to showcase Cricova’s craftsmanship. Some visitors, like Juha, have described the experience as “very interesting,” noting the chance to taste wines in a stunning underground setting. The wines are generally high quality, with a variety of styles that appeal to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

While the tour doesn’t specify the exact wines you’ll taste, the focus is on quality and authenticity. Expect to sample wines preserved in niches alongside other bottles, all stored in a climate-controlled environment that ensures their perfect aging.

The Logistics and Practicalities

The tour includes private transportation from selected hotels in Chisinau, making it a hassle-free experience. The journey itself is quick and comfortable, allowing you to relax before and after your underground adventure. Tours are typically booked 10 days in advance—a good idea in high season to secure your spot, especially since the maximum group size is only 10.

The tour lasts approximately four hours, giving ample time for the guided walk, wine tasting, and some photos of the underground scenery. Since lunch isn’t included, plan to eat before or after your visit. The tour is offered in multiple languages—English, Russian, and Japanese—making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Why this Tour Shines

The most compelling aspect of this tour is the chance to walk through what feels like a subterranean city of wine, with its wide streets and old-world charm. It’s a rare opportunity to see a wine cellar of such scale and complexity, especially with the added benefit of a private guide tailored to your language preference.

The wine tasting enhances the visit, giving you a real taste of Moldova’s expertise and tradition. Many travelers, including Juha, have called Cricova a “must-see” in Moldova, citing the stunning underground views and fascinating history. It’s not just about the wine; it’s about experiencing a unique slice of Moldovan culture in a spectacular setting.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits wine enthusiasts eager to explore an extraordinary underground wine city, as well as curious travelers looking for an authentic and memorable Moldova highlight. If you enjoy guided private tours that combine education, culture, and tasting, this is a great choice. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small groups for a more personalized experience.

The Sum Up

Visiting Cricova Winery offers more than just a taste of Moldova’s wine—it’s a journey into a fascinating underground world that combines history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. The private nature of this tour, with its intimate setting and insightful guide, makes it a standout experience for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Moldova’s winemaking traditions.

While it doesn’t include lunch and requires pre-booking, the value of walking through the world’s largest underground wine cellars and sampling premium wines makes it well worth the investment. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply looking for an unforgettable adventure beneath the earth, this tour presents a genuinely special perspective on Moldova’s heritage.

FAQs

How long is the Cricova Winery tour?
The tour lasts about four hours, including transportation, guided exploration, and wine tasting.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation from selected hotels in Chisinau is included, making it convenient and comfortable.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides offer tours in Russian, Japanese, and English, catering to diverse travelers.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

How many wines will I taste?
You will sample three different types of high-quality wines during the tasting.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, the Cricova Winery tour from Chisinau is an excellent choice for those eager to explore Moldova’s underground wine city in an intimate, guided setting. With stunning views, authentic tastings, and a fascinating underground labyrinth, it’s a memorable experience that offers a real taste of Moldova’s wine heritage—worthy of a place on your travel itinerary.