Cricova Blanc de Noirs NV

Alcohol: 12.5%

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir

Localization: Moldova

Tasting Notes: Pinot Noir crafted based on the Methode Champenoise with second-in bottle fermentation for a minimum of 24 months. Elegant with fine bubbles, light yellow straw color, delicate aromas, fruitiness and fine minerality of the taste. Very balanced and light on the palate. 

Food pairing: It is excellent on its own and a great companion to oysters, red or black caviar, cheeses and walnuts, or almonds, but it also pairs well with more complex dishes like pasta or risotto.

The Domain: The wine cellars of Cricova are the second largest wine cellar in Moldova, after Milestii Mici (the largest in the world). It boasts 120 kilometres (75 mi) of labyrinthine roadways, versus MM's 200 kilometres (120 mi). Tunnels have existed under Cricova since the 15th century, when limestone was dug out to help build Chişinău. They were converted into an underground wine emporium in the 1950s.

Half of the roadways are used for wine storage. The roads are named by the wines they store. This "wine city" has its warehouses, tasting rooms, and other facilities underground. It goes down to 100 metres (330 ft) below ground and holds 1.25 million bottles of rare wine. The oldest wine dates back to 1902. The temperature is maintained at about 12 °C (54 °F) all year round (which is perfect for wine).