The best wineries in Moldova

Moldova: a wine country steeped in history

Winemaking in Moldova dates back more than 3,000 years. The country has a rich tradition that has been passed down through generations. During the Ottoman Empire, wine production was restricted, but in the 19th century, the industry revived thanks to French and German influences.

With over 112,000 hectares of vineyards, Moldova is one of the largest wine producers per capita in the world. All across the country, you’ll find vast vineyards and small, family-run wineries. In addition to international grape varieties like Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, local varieties such as Feteasca Neagră, Rara Neagră, and Feteasca Albă are especially popular.

The unique climate, with long summers and mild winters, results in full-bodied, aromatic wines. Moldovan wines are exported all over the world, but there’s also a growing focus on wine tourism.

The Codru region: the heart of Moldovan Wine

Codru is Moldova’s most important wine region. Located in the central part of the country, it accounts for over 60% of Moldova’s vineyards. The area is known for its rolling hills, limestone-rich soil, and mild climate — perfect for growing grapes.

Codru is home to some of the most famous wineries in Moldova, such as Cricova Winery and Milestii Mici Winery. This region is especially known for its underground wine cellars, where millions of bottles are stored under ideal conditions. The cool, constant temperatures in these limestone tunnels make them perfect for aging wine.

But Codru isn’t just about the big names. You’ll also find smaller, artisanal wineries like Crama Mircești, where you can enjoy a more personal and authentic experience. Here, you don’t just taste the wine — you learn about the local wine culture and traditions straight from the source.

Top wineries to visit in Moldova

Moldova is known for its diverse and unique wineries. From massive underground wine cities to boutique producers in picturesque villages — every winery has its own story to tell. Below is a selection of the best wineries to visit during your trip:

Important tip: Wine tastings and tours usually need to be booked in advance. Many wineries operate with small teams, so if you show up without a reservation, there’s no guarantee someone will be available to guide you. Booking can be done easily through websites like getyourguide.com or directly via the winery’s website.

Wine tours and tastings

In Moldova, it’s all about the experience. Many wineries offer more than just tours and tastings — they invite you to truly immerse yourself in the local wine culture. You can take part in:

• Wine workshops: learn how wine is made and bottle your own to take home as a souvenir.
• Cooking classes: discover how to prepare traditional Moldovan dishes like mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) and plăcintă (stuffed pastries).
• Wine festivals: visit during the National Wine Day in October, one of the largest wine festivals in Europe. Taste hundreds of wines while enjoying live music and traditional dancing.
• Vineyard walks: stroll through the vineyards and learn about the secrets of the local terroir straight from the source.

Note: wine tastings and tours must be booked in advance. Many wineries operate with limited staff, so without a reservation, there’s no guarantee someone will be available to host you. Booking is easy through platforms like getyourguide.com or directly via the winery’s website.