Russian Airstrike Destroys Historic Prince Trubetskoi Winery in Ukraine’s Kherson Region

On February 12, two Russian FAB-500 aerial bombs struck the historic Prince Trubetskoi Winery in the village of Vesele, Kherson region, Ukraine. The attack destroyed the 19th-century winery building, its production facilities, hotel, and restaurant. The winery, founded 130 years ago by a Russian prince, had survived multiple regime changes and wars. It was producing wine until Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022.

The location of the winery along the Dnieper River placed it in a vulnerable position during the conflict. Russian forces occupied the area in 2022. During their retreat after Ukrainian forces liberated the right bank of Kherson in November 2022, Russian troops looted the winery. They stole 70 years’ worth of archived wines and destroyed what they could not take. The premises were left heavily damaged and littered with landmines.

After liberation, the owners decided not to resume production at the original site due to ongoing shelling from Russian positions across the river. Instead, they relocated operations to Ozerne, about 250km southwest of Odesa, and rebranded as Stoic Wines. The new name reflects their desire to honor their heritage while distancing themselves from the Russian legacy.

Despite moving production, the original winery site continued to be targeted by Russian attacks. The bombing on February 12 was reported officially on February 22 and marked a final blow to the historic structure. According to Sergiy Klimov, a Ukrainian wine expert and founder of the Kyiv Food & Wine Festival, employees managed to save the original architectural plans from the ruins. This gives hope for future reconstruction once conditions allow.

The destruction of Prince Trubetskoi Winery is part of a broader pattern of cultural and economic losses suffered by Ukraine’s wine industry since the start of the war. Many wineries have faced occupation, looting, and repeated shelling. The loss of historic archives and buildings represents not only an economic setback but also an erasure of cultural heritage.

The team behind Stoic Wines has expressed determination to continue operations using alternative facilities in Odesa region. They plan to rebuild when possible, relying on preserved blueprints and community support. In the meantime, supporters can purchase Stoic Wines in the United States through Skurnik Imports.

For those wishing to assist broader relief efforts in Ukraine, organizations such as Come Back Alive continue to accept donations. Advocates also encourage contacting elected officials to maintain awareness that active conflict persists in Ukraine despite reduced media coverage.

The destruction of this landmark underscores ongoing risks faced by Ukrainian cultural sites and businesses near active front lines. The resilience shown by Stoic Wines reflects a wider determination among Ukrainians to preserve their heritage and livelihoods amid war.