Moldova Wine Tour – Tastings, Cellars and Adventure

A Moldova wine tour is an experience every wine lover should try at least once. The journey combines clear flavours, strong history and real access to one of Europe’s most overlooked wine countries. In Moldova, wine is not a trend. Instead, it shapes daily life.

During this Moldova wine tour, we visit several of the country’s top wine estates. For example, Cricova is home to the world’s second-largest wine cellar. Millions of bottles rest underground. Because the tunnels run for kilometres, we drive through them by car. Naturally, tastings are part of the visit.

However, this Moldova wine tour offers more than famous cellars. We also explore the modern wine scene. Moreover, we meet producers who actively shape Moldova today. In addition, we cross into Transnistria to visit the Kvint distillery, known for its high-quality brandy.

Tuesday – Arrival and Wine Tasting at Chateau Vartely

First, we arrive in Chișinău. Then we drive directly to Chateau Vartely, where we stay for the first night of our Moldova wine tour. The experience begins right away with a guided tour. Afterwards, we taste five carefully selected wines.

Chateau Vartely produces elegant wines in quiet surroundings. Meanwhile, the terrace offers views over the vineyards. As a result, the Moldova wine tour starts at a calm and confident pace.

In the evening, the estate serves dinner. Local dishes pair with house wines. Afterwards, you can relax with coffee or enjoy another glass together.

Wednesday – History, Monasteries and Transnistria

We start the day at Old Orhei, one of Moldova’s most well-known sites. Here, monks carved a monastery directly into the rock. At the same time, the landscape opens around you. The caves also show settlement traces from as early as 600 BC.

After a morning of history and views, we continue toward Transnistria. Along the way, we stop for lunch. There, we taste traditional Moldovan food.

Later in the afternoon, we arrive in Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria. The city has a strong Soviet look. However, it also has a unique local rhythm. In the evening, we dine at a local restaurant and experience regional cuisine.

Thursday – Fortresses, Legends and World-Class Cognac

The day begins in Bendery with a visit to the old Turkish fortress. The site is full of stories. For instance, Baron von Münchhausen claimed he flew over the fortress on a cannonball.

Afterwards, we enjoy lunch and take a short break. Then the focus shifts. We visit the Kvint distillery, famous for its brandy.

Here, we taste ten different types. Some are young and fresh. Others have aged for up to 50 years. Additionally, light food enhances the tasting experience. Finally, everyone receives a small gift.

Friday – Small Wineries and Purcari Wine Castle

We leave Transnistria and continue through the countryside. First, we visit a small winery. The owner leads a personal tour. During the visit, we tasted four wines and enjoyed lunch. As a result, you see how small producers work with care and skill.

Later, we head to Purcari, Moldova’s most famous wine castle. Wine production here began in 1827. Therefore, tradition plays a key role. The tasting includes ten wines, from fresh whites to deep reds.

In the evening, we arrive at our hotel in Chișinău. The night is free. However, we are happy to recommend restaurants and bars if you need some ideas.

Saturday – Markets, City Life and the World’s Largest Wine Cellar

We start the morning at a local market in Chișinău. Here, we sample food from nearby farms. For example, you will find bread, cheese, honey and preserves.

After that, we visit key city sights. These include the Triumphal Arch and the main cathedral. Then, after a light lunch, we drive to Mileștii Mici, the world’s largest wine cellar.

The cellar stretches over 200 kilometres underground. As a result, the scale feels overwhelming. We taste seven wines, enjoy dinner and receive a small gift.

Sunday – Free Day in Chișinău

This day is free. You can relax or explore on your own. For instance, you can shop, walk the city or sit at a café.

If you want ideas, we are ready to help. Therefore, you stay flexible.

Monday – Cricova and Farewell Dinner

We save one major experience for the final day of the Moldova wine tour. Cricova ranks as the world’s second-largest wine cellar. Moreover, it produces premium wines. Many public figures have visited over the years.

First, we join a guided tour. Then we enjoy a tasting of seven wines and a relaxed lunch.

In the evening, we end the Moldova wine tour with a farewell dinner at a Georgian restaurant in Chișinău. Together, we raise a glass to a week shaped by wine and discovery.

Cheap flights can be found here.