Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.
Red Wine
Vinaria Din Vale 7 Coline Feteasca Neagra Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Valul Lui Traian, Republic Of Moldova: Vinaria din Vale 7 Coline Feteasca Neagra-Cabernet Sauvignon from Moldova's Valul lui Traian region is a harmonious, medium-bodied red offering aromas of ripe red plum, cassis, and hints of fresh herbs. It's dry with smooth tannins and vibrant acidity. Serve it slightly below room temperature with grilled pork tenderloin as the wine's juicy texture and red fruit brightness will enhance the meat's savory char beautifully, or pair it with roasted eggplant and tomato casserole where the wine's herbal notes and supple structure will complement the Mediterranean flavors perfectly. Andrian and Elena Davidescu, who now lead the family winery founded by their father Vladimir, craft this wine from vineyards sprawling across over 1,000 hectares within the UNESCO-protected Lower Prut Natural Reserve near Lake Beleu. The 7 Coline ("7 Hills") line celebrates the family's legacy that began with grandfather Ilie's small apiary and vineyard in southern Moldova, a tradition symbolized by an oak tree representing longevity and family roots. Enjoy now or cellar for 4-6 years. Feteasca Neagra Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled pork tenderloin, roasted eggplant and tomato casserole, beef goulash. Drink: 2026 - 2032 48300 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. February 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sparkling Wine
Divergence Hughes Vineyard Brut Rosé Sparkling 2021, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Divergence Brut Rosé Sparkling from Ontario's Lincoln Lakeshore sub-appellation is a refined, bone-dry sparkling wine showcasing notes of wild strawberry, tart cherry, and delicate hints of toasted almond. This sparkling wine is made using Méthode Traditionnelle or the traditional method of the second fermentation in the bottle, just as they do in the Champagne region. It's medium-bodied with a persistent, fine mousse and vibrant acidity that carries through to an elegant, mineral-driven finish. Serve it well chilled with seared tuna tataki as the wine's bright red fruit and lively bubbles will complement the delicate fish beautifully, or pair it with roasted duck breast where the wine's earthy undertones and crisp character will enhance the rich meat. Winemaker Jeff Moote, a former engineer who transitioned to winemaking after graduating from Brock University's Cool Climate Oenology program, crafts this exceptional sparkler from 100% Pinot Noir grown at Hughes Vineyard, using both with and without skin contact to achieve perfect balance. This wine was aged for two years on its lees and disgorged with just 1 gram per liter dosage, making it essentially an extra brut style. This wine drinks beautifully now or can cellar for another 3-4 years to develop additional complexity. Brut Rosé Sparkling food pairings: seared tuna tataki, roasted duck breast, aged gruyere and prosciutto. Drink: 2026 - 2030 49617 11.6% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. February 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart