Chisinau: Milestii Mici Winery Tour with 3 Tastings

If you’re seeking a unique wine experience in Eastern Europe, the Milestii Mici Winery tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Moldova’s vinicultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore Europe’s biggest underground wine cellar, sample three distinctive wines, and enjoy tasty local appetizers—all in just four hours.

What we love about this tour is its perfect blend of history, authenticity, and practicality. The vast wine collection—over 1.5 million bottles—is breathtaking, and the guided experience makes it easy to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship behind Moldova’s famous wines. Plus, the small group setting ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

The only caveat? The tour involves descending 60 meters underground, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some steps and enclosed spaces. This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a memorable taste of Moldova’s traditions.

Good To Know

• Largest wine collection in the world: Over 1.5 million bottles in underground cellars
• Three curated tastings: Including a vintage dessert wine and two dry wines
• Authentic local flavors: Appetizers like bruschetta and prosciutto crudo complement the wine
• Educational and engaging: Discover Moldova’s winemaking history and techniques
• Comfortable environment: Temperature inside the cellar is a steady 12°C, so dress accordingly
• Small group experience: Limited to 15 people for a more intimate tour

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Milestii Mici Winery Tour

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup in Chisinau

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Chisinau, making logistics straightforward. Moldova Guided Tours ensures a smooth start, so you don’t have to worry about navigating or finding your way. This is especially helpful if you’re new to the city or prefer a hassle-free experience.

Journey Underground: The Largest Wine Cellars in Europe

Once at the winery, the real journey begins. You’ll descend approximately 60 meters into the underground tunnels—an impressive feat that highlights the scale of Milestii Mici. These cellars stretch for hundreds of kilometers, creating a maze of aging wines cooled naturally to a perfect 12°C.

Traveling through these corridors, you’ll see countless bottles stored along the walls. The sheer quantity is hard to grasp at first glance, but a knowledgeable guide will share insights into how this collection was built over decades. Many reviews mention the “mind-blowing” size of the wine cellar, which makes the experience unforgettable.

Exploring the Cellars: A Visual Feast

The cellars aren’t just storage rooms—they resemble a city of wine, with arched ceilings, dim lighting, and cool air. Some areas are dedicated to specific wine types, and others showcase vintage collections, including rare bottles. Expect to learn about the different techniques used in Moldovan winemaking and how the environment contributes to aging.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tasting Three Distinct Wines

The highlight for many is the wine tasting, which features three carefully selected bottles:

• A White Dry PGI — showcasing Moldova’s crisp, refreshing whites
• A Red Dry PGI — offering a taste of Moldova’s rich reds
• A Dessert Vintage Wine — a sweet, smooth wine that’s often described as a treat

Pairings include a variety of appetizers like bruschetta with aubergine cream, zacusca, and prosciutto crudo. These bites aren’t just filler; they enhance the wine’s flavors and offer a taste of local cuisine.

Why the Experience Matters

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each wine and the traditions behind Moldovan winemaking. Many reviewers mention that the tour is well-paced, informative, and enjoyable—even for those unfamiliar with wine. One guest noted, “The tasting was a perfect balance of education and enjoyment,” emphasizing how approachable the experience is.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

The tour lasts roughly 110 minutes, but with transportation and tasting, expect to spend about four hours in total. The small group size (max 15 people) means you get individual attention, and you can ask questions freely. The cost of $148 per person includes hotel pickup, the guided tour, and tastings, making it a good value considering the exclusivity and depth of experience.

Considerations for Travelers

Because you’ll be underground for a substantial period, wearing a jacket is advisable. The consistent temperature of 12°C might surprise some visitors, especially if the weather is warm outside. The tour is conducted in English, Romanian, and Russian, so language should not be a barrier.

Authentic Moldovan Wine Culture

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Moldova’s winemaking traditions. Many visitors comment that the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm made the experience more enriching. You’ll walk away not just with a few wine bottles, but with an understanding of Moldova’s pride in its vineyards and winemaking history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits wine lovers eager to explore Europe’s largest wine collection in a single setting. It’s also ideal for travelers interested in Moldova’s cultural heritage or those seeking a cool, historical adventure in a unique environment. The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, making it a good choice for couples, small parties, or solo travelers.

However, if you have mobility issues or dislike enclosed spaces, the descent into the underground cellars might be a consideration. The tour is also perfect for those who appreciate high-quality tastings paired with authentic local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is included in the tour price?
A: The $148 fee covers hotel pickup, the guided underground winery tour, the tasting of three wines, and a selection of appetizers.

Q: How long does the entire experience last?
A: The tour itself lasts about 110 minutes, but with transportation and tasting, you should plan for around four hours.

Q: Is there a limit on group size?
A: Yes, the tour is limited to 15 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Q: What wines will I taste?
A: You’ll enjoy a White Dry PGI, a Red Dry PGI, and a Vintage Dessert Wine, each paired with appetizers.

Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: It’s recommended to bring a jacket, as the cellar temperature is a steady 12°C.

Q: Is the tour suitable for non-Romanian speakers?
A: Yes, tours are offered in English, Romanian, and Russian, so language should not be an issue.

Q: How does the tour help me understand Moldovan wine?
A: The guide explains the significance of the wines, the history of the winery, and the winemaking techniques, giving you a meaningful context.

Q: Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
A: Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Milestii Mici Winery tour offers a rare opportunity to see Europe’s largest wine collection underground, taste a curated selection of wines, and learn about Moldova’s storied wine heritage. It balances educational value with a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere, making it a worthwhile addition to any Moldova itinerary.

This experience is especially suited for those who enjoy wine tasting, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure underground. Its intimate setting ensures you won’t just observe but truly connect with Moldova’s winemaking traditions.

For travelers seeking a memorable, authentic experience that combines history, flavor, and a bit of exploration, this tour delivers on all fronts—at a fair price point considering the depth and uniqueness of what’s offered. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about Moldova’s vinicultural scene, this journey underground is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: