Cricova is one of the most famous state-owned Moldovan wineries, and there is a good reason for that. The impressive size cellars and the winery are built under the ground, in the former limestone mines. It's much like a town with its own roads and traffic, therefore a huge tourist attraction in Kishinev as well. A legend goes that the Soviet space pioneer, Yuri Gagarin, once entered these cellars and two days passed before he found his way out. It boasts a pompous degustation hall and high-flying guests with Russian ex-President Putin among them. Yet it oozes somewhat chilly arrogance - no charm of French wineries is to be expected there. It seems following some Soviet-time pattern - no visitors are accepted without prior notice. The oldest vintages of Cricova collection dates back to 1902. There are exclusive collectibles as well - some wines from the 30s that have been part of Hermann Goering's collection, seized by the Red Army after the 2nd World War. Cricova wine store offers entirely different attitude - the shop assistants are kind and knowledgeable. Along with wines, it sells the very best Moldovan cognacs, too. Its décor exudes somewhat post-Soviet kitsch, featuring stained glass panels, crystal chandeliers and marble.
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