Don’t miss out: free tours of the 100-year-old Anykščių vynas winery

Celebrating its remarkable 100th anniversary this year, Anykščių vynas – a pioneer of Lithuanian winemaking operated by MV GROUP Production – is preparing a special gift for the residents of Anykščiai and visitors to the town. On 26 September, during the traditional Obuolinės festival, the winery will open its doors for free guided tours, offering visitors a closer look at Lithuanian winemaking traditions, modern production processes and the remarkable history of one of the country’s oldest beverage producers.

Over its hundred-year history, the Anykščių vynas winery has become an integral part of the identity of the Anykščiai region. From the very beginning, its story has been closely linked to local orchards, apples and generations of people who have nurtured the tradition of processing fruit and berries.

“This anniversary is much more than an important milestone. It represents a hundred years of experience, people’s work, bold ideas and traditions that remain alive in Anykščiai to this day. We want to use this occasion to share our story with the local community and visitors. Over the decades, Anykščių vynas has lived through different chapters of the country’s history, economic shifts and technological transformations,” says Vidmantė Mickevičienė, Head of Visitor Centres at MV GROUP Production.

A total of three tours are planned for 26 September, with up to 50 participants in each group. This means around 150 residents of Anykščiai and visitors to the town will have the opportunity to experience the story of Anykščių vynas first-hand. Participation is free of charge, but advance registration is required.

Untold stories and beverage tastings

Visitors will not only could explore Anykščių vynas and learn more about its production processes, but also hear fascinating historical facts, anecdotes and legends shared by their guide – the charismatic Gintarė Siniakovienė, Visitor Centre Manager at Anykščių vynas.

Guests will also visit the visitor centre, which displays a collection of historic beverage labels and international awards won over the years. Among them is the highest distinction awarded in Paris during the interwar period for strawberry wine produced in Anykščiai.

The tour will combine an educational programme with tastings of non-alcoholic beverages produced at the winery.

“We want everyone who visits us to leave with a memorable experience, a deeper understanding of our history and perhaps a few new favourite flavours. We are also proud that, a century later, the winery continues the traditions established by its founder, Balys Karazija, while at the same time embracing the latest technologies,” emphasises V. Mickevičienė.

The “Obuolinės” festival was chosen for a reason

It is no coincidence that Anykščių vynas will open its doors to visitors during the traditional Obuolinės festival.

“This traditional celebration marks the end of the autumn harvest season, while Anykščiai is particularly renowned at this time of year for the scent of apples and its many orchards. Apples are the main raw material processed at our winery, so during this season the entire area is filled with the wonderful aroma of fresh apples,” says V. Mickevičienė.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the weather, as parts of the tour will take place both inside the winery and outdoors. The historic building also has a considerable number of stairs. Any protective clothing required for entering the production areas will be provided on site.