Chiz the Winemaker Museum is a place where we make it easy and fascinating to discover a wealth of information about grapes, wine and winemaking, as well as the history of their development in the world, Ukraine and Zakarpattia.

It is the first Museum of the History and Culture of Viticulture and Winemaking in Western Ukraine, and the second museum of its kind in the country.

Chiz the Winemaker was a real historical figure – a burgher who lived near present-day Berehove in the 13th century. He owned vineyards in the area known as Chizay, which took its name from him. In 1995, Chateau Chizay, Ukraine’s first privately owned winery, was established on the site of Chiz’s former estate.

When creating the Museum, we brought the first known winemaker of our region “back to life”. Through him, the history of winemaking unfolds as if he himself were guiding you through the Museum. Our guide-sommeliers complement the tour with fascinating details, stories and their own charm.

The Museum has four exhibition halls dedicated to viticulture, winemaking, the history of winemaking in Zakarpattia, and the history of Chateau Chizay itself.

The exhibits include unique traditional viticultural and winemaking tools – not only presses and grape knives, but also a device used to combat phylloxera, puton and lopovka, among others. You will also see rare photographs of grape growers and archival wine labels from the early 20th century, proving that wines from Zakarpattia were already known and appreciated in Europe at that time.

And there is much more: plenty of engaging, modern presentations about wine and winemaking. It is genuinely educational – and fascinating!

The Museum also tells the story of our journey to revive Ukrainian winemaking – from ancient times, through the Soviet anti-alcohol campaign, to the recognition of Zakarpattia wines on the international stage, including their representation at La Cité du Vin, the world centre of wine culture in Bordeaux, and awards received at the world’s most prestigious international wine competitions.

Whether you already appreciate wine or are just beginning to discover its fascinating world, the Chiz the Winemaker Museum is a must-visit. And, of course, we have made sure there is something interesting for everyone – including our youngest guests.

The Chiz the Winemaker Museum is open every day. Please book your tour in advance: +380 50 432 05 25; tourism@chizay.com.