Museum of Winemaking (Khovrenko Winery)

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Museum of Winemaking (Khovrenko Winery)

Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand

The Museum of Winemaking, also known as the Khovrenko Winery, is a unique and fascinating destination in Samarkand, a city renowned for its historical landmarks. This museum holds a special place among the city’s attractions due to its rich history and connection with the Khovrenko Winery, which has been in operation for over 150 years.

The origins of the winery date back to the Russian Empire’s expansion into Central Asia. As traders and entrepreneurs flocked to the region to explore its wealth, they discovered that Samarkand was home to an exceptional variety of grapes, known for their high sugar content—25 percent compared to the global average of 16 percent. Among these entrepreneurs was the Russian winemaker and businessman D.M. Filatov, who established the first winery in Uzbekistan. Over 15 years, Filatov elevated the winery to international acclaim. The winery’s «Biishty» wine, meaning «Edenic,» won a gold medal at an international exhibition of wines and brandies in Paris, attracting collectors from around the world to Samarkand.

Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand
Museum of Winemaking at Khovrenko Winery, Samarkand

With the rise of Soviet power, Filatov was forced to abandon the winery. However, he managed to hide a collection of his finest wines, which remained undiscovered for several decades until they were accidentally found during a reconstruction of the winery. The talented winemaker M.A. Khovrenko took over the management of the reconstructed winery. He introduced new grape varieties and organized the classification of wines, significantly contributing to the development of the winemaking industry in Uzbekistan.

Today, the Khovrenko Winery continues to operate, producing a variety of wines, brandy, and vodka. Its cellars house new collections of wines for long-term aging, and the best vintages of Samarkand wines are sold at auctions. The winery also features an intriguing wine museum that educates visitors about its history and the history of winemaking in Samarkand. The museum showcases the winery’s international awards and offers wine tastings.

In February 2014, the Samarkand Winery participated in the «Best Product — 2014» tasting contest, held as part of the 21st International Exhibition for food, beverages, and food raw materials «Prodexpo-2014» in Moscow, Russia. The winery’s products received high honors, with the «Samarkand» Balm winning a gold medal, and the «Samarkand» Vintage Cognac and «Gula-kandoz» Vintage Wine both receiving silver medals.

Address: 58, Makhmud Kashgari str. Samarkand
Orienting point: School No. 37
Telephone: (+998 66) 233 07 07

Samarkand's Registan square

Samarkand city tour

From$90
6 Hours

Stroll through Shahi-Zinda
Explore Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Discover Registan Square grandeur
Shop at Siab Bazaar
Taste local traditional bread

Discover the enchanting city of Samarkand with our one-day tour. Visit iconic landmarks like Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and the stunning Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of this ancient Silk Road city.
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