Castel Mimi Winery in Moldova Receives €1.24 Million Investment for Sustainable Growth and Wellness Centre Development

Castel Mimi Winery in Moldova Receives €1.24 Million Investment for Sustainable Growth and Wellness Centre Development

(IN BRIEF) The EBRD, EU, and maib have partnered to fund Castel Mimi’s expansion in Moldova, providing a €1.24 million loan to build a wellness centre at its award-winning wine resort. This investment supports sustainable development in Moldova’s wine tourism sector, with a focus on climate resilience and energy efficiency. The EU’s €327,000 grant under the EU4Climate initiative further promotes green practices, while the project will help boost Moldova’s economy and tourism sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 20-May-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), together with the European Union (EU) and Moldova’s largest bank, maib, has teamed up to support the expansion of Castel Mimi SRL, a leading Moldovan winery, by providing a loan to build a wellness centre at its renowned wine resort. This investment aligns with the shared goal of boosting sustainable tourism and enhancing climate-positive practices in Moldova’s viticulture and hospitality sectors.

Under the partnership, maib will provide a MDL 25 million (approximately €1.24 million) loan to Castel Mimi, which will use the funds to construct a two-floor wellness centre at its chateau. The EBRD will take on half of the loan risk, offering support for this development that will further elevate the winery’s sustainable tourism offering, including its zero-emissions hotel and 74 hectares of vineyards.

In addition to the loan, the EU will provide a €327,000 grant under the Finance and Technology Transfer Centre for Climate Change (FINTECC) programme, funded by the EU4Climate initiative. This grant will help Castel Mimi enhance its environmental sustainability through innovative technologies and practices that support energy efficiency and climate resilience. The winery is a pioneer in Moldova’s hospitality sector, embedding comprehensive environmental practices as part of its growth.

Moldova has long been known for its wine production, ranking first globally in terms of vineyard area per capita. In recent years, the country has gained international recognition for its wines, with Castel Mimi becoming a hallmark of the Moldovan wine tourism scene. The winery is owned by Iurie Trofim, who has transformed the former state-owned Agrovin Bulboaca winery into a cultural and tourism hub, offering both locally produced wines and an on-site zero-emissions hotel.

Investing in Sustainability and Growth

The partnership between the EBRD, EU, and maib reflects a strong commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on supporting innovative climate technologies in Moldova’s growing wine tourism sector. Vladimir Tuerkner, Managing Director for Ukraine and Moldova at the EBRD, emphasized: “This investment highlights our dedication to supporting sustainable growth, combining heritage with modernity. Castel Mimi demonstrates how the right vision, combined with strategic backing, can drive both economic and environmental success.”

Jānis Mažeiks, Ambassador of the European Union to Moldova, added: “Through the EU’s commitment to the green transition and Moldova’s economic competitiveness, we are proud to support Castel Mimi as a first mover in promoting sustainable wine tourism. The EU Moldova Growth Plan will provide critical support to ensure Moldova’s continued progress and integration with the European Union.”

Maib’s Role in Moldova’s Sustainable Future

Andrii Glevatskyi, Deputy Chairman of the maib Management Board, remarked: “As Moldova’s leading bank, maib is committed to investing in local businesses that foster long-term value creation. Our collaboration with Castel Mimi reflects our confidence in local potential and our shared vision for sustainable development in Moldova.”

Adrian Trofim, CEO of Castel Mimi, said: “We are grateful for the continued support of the EBRD, EU, and maib. This partnership enables us to further develop our winery and tourism complex, bringing both economic growth and sustainability to the region. We hope our example will inspire others in Moldova and beyond.”

Long-Term Impact and EU’s Role

The EU Moldova Growth Plan, with a €1.9 billion investment, is designed to enhance Moldova’s economic resilience and support essential reforms, including efforts to improve environmental sustainability and infrastructure. The EU’s contributions have been integral in fostering Moldova’s economic integration and alignment with EU standards, bringing the country closer to EU membership.

Since its involvement in Moldova, the EBRD has invested over €2.6 billion in 183 projects, supporting various sectors including energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Media Contact:

Vanora Bennett
Email: media@ebrd.com

SOURCE: EBRD