Step back in time and let me transport you to the heart of Samarkand. Before you stands a place where history and tradition intertwine. The Xovrenko Nomidagi Samarqand Vino Kombinati, also known as the Samarkand Wine Factory, is the oldest winery in Central Asia. Founded in 1868 by Russian officer D.L. Filatov, this factory has witnessed the evolution of wine-making from its humble beginnings to a renowned establishment. Imagine Filatov, a man with a passion for exquisite wine, using only the finest local grapes to create something truly special. He brought new grape varieties from Crimea and other parts of Europe, striving for perfection in each bottle. He even bred his own variety, called ‘biishty,’ meaning ‘paradisiacal,’ which won a gold medal at the International Wine and Brandy Exhibition in Paris.
This factory’s success gained notoriety, and in 1922, it was nationalized and became the most important winery in the Soviet Union. In 1940, the factory was renamed after Professor M.A. Xovrenko, who dedicated his life to the art of viniculture. Xovrenko, a brilliant chemist, developed new and innovative production techniques and introduced new grape varieties. He understood the unique qualities of Uzbek grapes and created wines with a distinctive flavor profile, a testament to his exceptional skill.
Today, the Xovrenko Nomidagi Samarqand Vino Kombinati is a symbol of this city’s vibrant heritage. The factory not only produces various wines, brandies, and vodkas, but also houses a magnificent museum. Walk through its halls and witness the evolution of winemaking in Samarkand, from the days of Filatov to the present. And if you are feeling adventurous, don’t miss the opportunity to sample the factory’s finest wines. Each sip will transport you back to a time when emperors and dignitaries savored these very same wines.