Moldova: Wine tour to Miletii Mici cellar with Tasting

If you’re craving a taste of Moldova’s legendary wine scene, the Miletii Mici winery offers one of the most unforgettable experiences. Located just outside Chiinu, this tour takes you on a 4-hour journey into the heart of Moldova’s vinicultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the world’s largest wine cellar—a labyrinth of limestone tunnels stretching over 200 km—and sample some of Moldova’s finest wines, including a Guinness World Record-holding collection.

What makes this tour special? First, the sheer scale of the underground cellar—60 meters beneath the surface—where you’ll stroll through historic corridors lined with over 1.5 million bottles. Second, the wine tasting of three carefully selected varieties paired with local snacks provides a genuine taste of Moldova’s winemaking craftsmanship.

A potential consideration? The cellar is quite cool—so dressing warmly is advisable. Also, if you’re expecting a full wine meal, keep in mind this tour emphasizes tasting and sightseeing over a full sit-down lunch.

This experience suits travelers who love authentic stories, appreciate good wine, and enjoy exploring unique underground spaces. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious about Moldovan culture, the intimate group size (limited to 6) and friendly guides make for a memorable outing.

Key Points

Largest Wine Cellar: Home to the Guinness World Record for the biggest wine collection.
Authentic Tasting: Sample three premium wines paired with local snacks.
Historical Setting: Walk through 200 km of limestone tunnels set 60 meters underground.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the visit with stories and context.
Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture the awe-inspiring underground corridors.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance—pay later for flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Miletii Mici Wine Tour

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The Journey Begins in Chiinu

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, a thoughtful feature that spares you the hassle of finding your way. Your guide, often multilingual, greets you warmly—ready to share Moldova’s wine secrets. The drive to Miletii Mici takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, offering glimpses of the Moldovan countryside—serene vineyards, rolling hills, and rustic villages. This scenic ride sets the tone for a relaxing, educational experience.

Arriving at Miletii Mici: The World’s Largest Wine Cellar

Once you arrive, the first thing that hits you is the scale: a sprawling underground maze stretching 200 kilometers, carved from limestone. This remarkable feat is recognized by the Guinness World Records, and as you descend into the tunnels, you realize why. The atmosphere is almost mystical, with cool air and the faint scent of wine lingering in the air.

Your guide, likely to be friendly and knowledgeable, will escort you through the galleries—a labyrinth of historic limestone corridors that date back decades. We loved the way the tunnels blend history, craftsmanship, and tradition. You’ll see bottles stored in rows, some dating back years, creating an impression of both reverence and playfulness.

The Guided Tour: A Peek Behind the Scenes

The guided tour, lasting about 105 minutes, offers a detailed look at the winemaking process, the history of the cellar, and the significance of Moldova’s viticultural heritage. It’s fascinating to learn how the Golden Collection was established and what it takes to maintain such an extensive cellar.

As your guide narrates stories of Moldovan winemaking, you’ll appreciate the dedication poured into each bottle. The tunnels themselves, carved from limestone, naturally maintain a cool and stable environment, ideal for aging wine. We found that this setting added a layer of authenticity and atmosphere that’s impossible to replicate in a regular wine shop.

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The Wine Tasting Experience

Next up, a 55-minute session where you get to taste three distinct wines from Miletii Mici’s collection: a dry white, a dry red, and a vintage dessert wine. The wines are paired with local snacks—prosciutto, salami, breadsticks, nuts, and prunes—that enhance each sip and give you a true taste of Moldovan flavors.

The white wine, a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), offers a crisp, refreshing start, while the red provides a smooth, full-bodied complement. The dessert vintage wine is particularly delightful, offering a sweet finish to your tasting. We loved the variety, and reviewers have described the wines as “delicious” and the atmosphere “lovely,” emphasizing the quality of the offerings.

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The Gift and Final Moments

As a token of appreciation, you’ll receive a complimentary bottle of “Univers” wine—an excellent souvenir of your Moldovan adventure. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds value to an already impressive experience.

After the tasting, you’ll have some time for photos—don’t miss the chance to capture the vast tunnels and bottles stored in rows. The guide may also answer your questions about the wine or the cellar’s history.

Returning to Chiinu

The trip wraps up with the return drive to Chiinu, where you’re dropped off at your hotel or accommodation. The entire experience, from pickup to drop-off, runs about 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into more comprehensive Moldova itineraries.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to see one of the most extraordinary wine cellars in the world. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, as the underground tunnels and historical setting provide a sense of discovery.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and local flavors, you’ll find this tour both educational and engaging. It’s a relaxed, small-group setting—limited to 6 participants—which fosters a more personal experience.

Conversely, if you’re expecting a full meal or a long tasting session, keep in mind that this tour emphasizes sightseeing and sampling rather than a large wine banquet.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The scale of the cellar is truly what sets this experience apart. Walking through 200 km of tunnels that house over 1.5 million bottles is awe-inspiring—something you won’t find in typical winery visits. The guaranteed quality of the wines, paired with the expert guidance, ensures you gain insight beyond just tasting.

The location itself is a highlight—cool, atmospheric, and steeped in tradition. The opportunity to visit the world’s largest wine cellar, and see thousands of bottles stored in elegant limestone corridors, makes this a must-do for fans of history, architecture, and good wine.

The Value for the Price

At a price that includes transport, guided tour, tasting, and a gift, the experience offers good value. It’s especially appealing considering the small group size and the personalized attention you’re likely to receive. The fact that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty adds flexibility, making it accessible for spontaneous planners.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Wear comfortable shoes—the tunnels are uneven and require walking.
Dress warmly—the cellar is cool year-round, often around 10°C (50°F).
Bring a camera for photos—this is a uniquely photogenic space.
Be prepared to sample three wines—pace yourself, and enjoy the local snacks that accompany each glass.
If you have dietary restrictions, inform your guide beforehand—some snacks are standard, but alternatives may be available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, the guided tour and sightseeing make it suitable for all ages. Non-drinkers can enjoy the walk through the tunnels and learn about Moldova’s wine heritage.

How long is the drive from Chiinu to Miletii Mici?
The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a convenient half-day trip.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip transport, a guided tour of the cellars, tasting three wines with snacks, and a complimentary bottle of wine.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
Yes, the cellar is cold, so dressing warmly is advised. It’s not suitable for those with altitude sickness or high blood pressure, and climbing is not allowed.

How many people are in each tour group?
Tour groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and lunch are not included; the experience focuses on wine tasting and sightseeing.

What language is the tour guide in?
Guides speak English, Romanian, and Russian.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable clothes and shoes, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket or sweater for the cellar’s cool environment.

The Miletii Mici wine tour offers a rare glimpse into the world’s largest wine cellar, paired with the chance to savor Moldova’s exceptional wines. It combines history, craftsmanship, and local flavors in a setting that’s both awe-inspiring and intimate. The guided walk through limestone tunnels, the tasting of three high-quality wines, and the friendly atmosphere make it a highlight for anyone exploring Moldova.

Whether you’re a casual wine lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable experience outside of Chiinu, this tour is well worth considering. The small-group setting and flexible booking make it accessible and adaptable, while the stunning underground galleries promise moments of awe and discovery. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with more than just photos—you carry home stories about Moldova’s legendary wine.

In essence, this tour is a celebration of Moldova’s winemaking legacy, wrapped in an adventure underground. Perfect for curious travelers who want a taste of Moldovan authenticity and a story to tell.