Pridnestrovie's emblematic cognac maker, Kvint, opens its doors to the public on a daily basis. The tour includes free taste-tasting and you can also buy bottles at factory-direct discounts.
Kvint factory in Tiraspol, PMR
A visit to Pridnestrovie wouldn't be complete without a visit to Kvint, one of the largest producers of wine, cognac and other strong beverages in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
The famous Tiraspol-based distillery was founded more than a hundred years ago, in 1897. At that time it was specialized in production of 40º vodka from artisan grape wines purchased from the peasants of nearby villages. As early as then the idea of making cognacs was conceived and first steps were taken to implement it into practice, although the first cognac spirits were laid for seasoning only in 1938. It was that “store of sun”, which laid foundation of the present fame and popularity of the drinks under the trademark «KVINT» on the CIS-markets and in many Western countries.
The history of the Kvint - like that of the PMR - was one of trying, falling, and then trying again before ultimately reaching international recognition. In 1918, a fire nearly ended the company, but it was revived from the ashes in 1925.
In World War II, Romanian invaders ransacked the factory and stripped it of valuables. It was rebuilt and reopened again in 1948.
German engineering
If anyone tries to tell you that Pridnestrovie still remains in the past, just tell them to visit Kvint. Here, they will see the new face of this new and young country: A modern, well-equipped company with the latest state-of-the-art machinery. Using the latest in German-style engineering, the Kvint plant consists of spacious and clean industrial premises and modern, highly productive equipment.
The making of real Kvint cognac
But while the engineering is modern, the taste is not: the distillery still maintains an age-old traditions and trade secrets of making the best beverages. It is an art in PMR whose closely guarded recipes are handed down from generation to generation.
The best part comes when you taste the output: a harmonious combination of traditionalism and originality, which enables us to achieve an inimitable noble taste and rich aroma. Kvint wines and cognacs successfully compete with leading European rivals due to the highest quality of the raw materials: totally natural and absolutely ecological – plus Kvint's exclusive recipes and unique know-how.
ISO certification
Entering the new millenium, in the year 2000 Kvint was certified for the International Quality Management System ISO 9001-94, with subsequent recertification for version ISO 9001-2000 in 2003 (BVQI). Kvint is also one of the only companies in this part of Europe to obtain the coveted Kosher Certificate. The wine- and cognac makers have also taken home lots of international awards and recognitions, including 2 Super Grand Prix Cups, 12 Grand Prix Cups, 1 Gold Diploma, 84 gold medals, 28 silver medals and 4 bronze.
Kvint products for sale in a store
Each year, Kvint produces ten million liters of wines, cognacs, vodka and other strong drinks. PMR's population is only 555,000 people so most of these ten million liters are obviously for export. This includes more than 40 brands of vodka, liqueur, wine, and fifteen different classes of cognac aged from between 3 to 50 years. Every year the distillery expands its own vineyards and adds new jobs. Since PMR declared its independence in 1990, almost all local companies invested heavily in developing the new republic's trade potentil. Kvint planted new vineyards on an area exceeding 400 hectares, hired people for new jobs, and more than doubled its exports.
Come to Pridnestrovie and take a tour of this succesful company! Kvint, and other export-minded companies like it, show that they have what it takes to put PMR on the map and make the country a part of Europe's future.
External link:
» Kvint on the web (official site)
