Cognac Factory Tour -- KVINT

Ever since enjoying the KVINT cognac on my birthday, I thought that if I could ever get to Tiraspol, I would go on a factory tour. I was absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to go on a VIP tour and tasting.

KVINT stands for Cognac, Wine and Beverages of Tiraspol

I learned that KVINT produces its cognac in accordance with procedures/standards from France and could petition for some sort of authentic "cognac" designation. Pictured here are their oak barrels from France

Also pictured is a "live corner" in the outside courtyard for employees to enjoy while on break (where there were also live birds and a stage for performances). Apparently these corners were a feature at factories and schools (where the children would help care for the live animals in the habitat/garden) during the Soviet Union. I was intrigued by the concept -- not just nice landscaping and/or a fountain -- but a mini habitat with living creatures that were to be cared for.

Tiraspol, Transnistria

We strolled through this park, looking at the various monuments.

Here is a statue of General Kotovsky, key in formation of the Moldavian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic in the early 1920s. (Later I will post photos of the Kotovsky Museum)

Like the many parks in Chisinau's City Center, there was an expansive playground, and I was sad that Peggy was not with me to check it out.

City Theater, Tiraspol, Transnistria

This plaque is on the City Theater in Tiraspol, where independence was proclaimed in 1990.

This billboard pictures the presidents of Transnistria, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia, with the slogan to the effect of "They will be!"

This street sign, named for the date of the Russian revolution, is in Moldavian (Romanian in Cyrillic) and Russian

The van has the logo of one of the Transnistrian television stations

Tiraspol's Central Market

Tiraspol, Transnistria

Tiraspol is the capitol of Transnistria (and the second largest city in Moldova).

Much of Moldova's industry is/was concentrated here, which was evident when driving past its many factories.

We stopped in the Sheriff market (Sheriff is a major company in Transnistria, owning many kinds of businesses) and a smaller market across the street.

Earlier on this blog I posted photos of the Chisinau Bere taps/stands on the main drag of Stefan cel Mare. Pictured here in Tiraspol is a KVINT wine stand.

Of course I had to stop in this "Made in America" store to find out what they were selling that is made in America. (I must confess that I wasn't expecting to be greeted by large U.S. flag during our excursion...)

We also visited this central Cathedral. Of all of the monasteries and cathedrals I visited while in Moldova, this was the first time that I stepped inside during a service. Thus, I took no photos while inside. It was as beautiful -- and as gilded --as the other orthodox churches I visited while in Moldova.

more photos of Grigoriopol

Here is another banner celebrating 20 years of Transnistria. Transnistrian Independence Day happens to fall on my birthday: September 2nd.

Also pictured is a sign with the exchange rates for the Transnistrian Ruble.

more photos of Grigoriopol, Transnistria

Pictured here are statues of heroes of the Soviet Union from Grigoriopol, a memorial honoring soldiers of the Great Patriotic War, and the first of many statues of Lenin. Also pictured is the coat of arms of the city of Grigoriopol.