In the heart of Moldova lies a hidden gem that boasts the world’s largest wine collection, the renowned Milestii Mici wine cellar. Recognized by Guinness World Records in 2007, this underground marvel is home to nearly 2 million bottles of wine stored in extensive tunnels, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for wine lovers and tourists alike.
Located in the city of Milestii Mici, the cellar houses the prestigious “Golden Collection,” featuring approximately 1.5 million bottles. Some of the wines date back to 1969, offering a glimpse into decades of winemaking tradition. The collection includes exquisite varieties such as “Pinot,” “Traminer,” “Muscat,” “Riesling,” “Feteasca,” “Codru,” and “Trandafirul Moldovei,” with flavor notes ranging from vanilla and cherries to blackberries, according to the Milestii Mici website.
These exceptional wines are not only savored by visitors to the underground city but are also exported internationally to countries such as Japan, the United States, Finland, Greece, Taiwan, and Malaysia, making Milestii Mici a global ambassador for Moldovan wine.
The wine cellar is housed in an elaborate network of tunnels carved from limestone, which was excavated to build the capital city of Chișinău. These tunnels, converted into wine storage in 1969, span a staggering 200 kilometers, offering optimal conditions for aging wine, with temperatures consistently in the mid-50s Fahrenheit and humidity levels maintained at 85-95%.
Visitors to Milestii Mici are treated to a journey through the vast tunnels, which can be explored by electric train, car, or bike. As they travel through wine-themed galleries, guests are surrounded by massive oak barrels storing wines that range in age, with the oldest dating back to 1986. The cellar features a wide array of wines, including table varieties, high-quality vintages, and sparkling wines.
The underground wine city draws an estimated 20,000 tourists annually, with many eager to explore the “Golden Collection.” After touring the cellar, visitors are invited to indulge in wine tastings and pair their experience with meals served in the tasting halls of Milestii Mici.
For those seeking an extraordinary blend of history, culture, and world-class wine, Milestii Mici offers a captivating adventure beneath Moldova’s surface.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
