Venture beyond the usual and discover the hidden gem of the wine world: Romania! With a winemaking tradition stretching back millennia, this Eastern European nation offers a rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be explored. From crisp, aromatic whites bursting with floral notes to elegant, fruit-forward reds, Romanian wines present a unique and exciting alternative to more mainstream options. Embrace the opportunity to taste something new and uncover the delicious secrets of this historic wine region.  

Romania boasts a fascinating array of indigenous grape varieties that are sure to intrigue any wine lover. Delight in the refreshing character of Fetească albă and the more expressive Fetească regală for your white wine adventures. For reds, indulge in the captivating flavors of Fetească Neagră, known for its depth and complexity. These local treasures, alongside well-loved international varieties, thrive in Romania’s diverse terroirs, resulting in wines with distinct personalities that reflect their origin. 

Ready to embark on a flavorful journey? Romanian wines offer exceptional quality and value, making them the perfect choice for both casual enjoyment and special occasions. Whether you’re seeking a bright white for a warm day or a robust red to pair with a hearty meal, you’re sure to find a Romanian wine that will delight your palate and expand your wine horizons. Don’t miss out on this exciting and emerging wine destination – your next favorite bottle might just be Romanian!

2023 Caii de la Letea “The Wild Horses of Letea Forest” $16.20 (Reg. $18)
Aligoté
Caii de la Letea Aligoté, a dry sparkling white, presents a pale gold with fine bubbles. On the nose, vibrant notes of lemon zest, green apple, and white flowers mingle with a distinctive minerality. The palate is exceptionally fresh and clean, offering crisp citrus and green plum flavors balanced by racy acidity and a saline, chalky finish. This bright and elegant wine is perfect as an aperitif or with light seafood and appetizers.

2023 Crama De Metei “Patima” $32.40 (Reg. $36)
Feteascǎ Aalbǎ
The 2023 Crama De Matei “Patima” Fetească Albă is a captivating dry white wine from Romania’s Dealu Mare region, showcasing the elegance of this indigenous grape. It presents a beautiful pale straw color and a fresh, mineral-driven nose with inviting floral notes of elderflower, chamomile, and lemongrass, accented by hints of citrus and quince. On the palate, it’s beautifully balanced and crystalline, offering harmonious fruity notes of pear and quince, complemented by a persistent minerality that adds volume and character, culminating in an elegant, long, and enveloping finish.

2023 Histria “Fleur Royale” $26.10 (Reg. $29)
Feteascǎ Regalǎ
Experience this intriguing and vibrant natural orange wine, made from the indigenous Fetească Regală grape. Vinified with wild yeasts and left on its skins for extended contact, it boasts a luminous amber hue and an aromatic profile of dried apricots, orange peel, and savory herbs. On the palate, it delivers a textural richness with refreshing acidity, offering notes of ripe orchard fruit, subtle tannins, and a dry, captivating finish, having earned a Double Gold Medal from Gilbert & Gaillard.

2022 Olterra “Luturi” $19.80 (Reg. $22)
Negru De Dragasani
Discover the unique character of Romania’s indigenous Negru de Drăgășani grape with the 2022 Olterra “Luturi.” This dry red showcases a deep ruby color and enticing aromas of dark berries, sour cherries, and black pepper, often complemented by earthy or smoky nuances. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and a refreshing acidity that carries flavors of plum, forest floor, and a hint of spice, leading to a vibrant and distinctively Romanian finish.

2020 Crama De Matei “Patima” $45 (Reg. $50)
Fetescǎ Neagrǎ
The 2020 Crama De Matei “Patima” Fetească Neagră is a powerful and elegant expression of Romania’s flagship red grape. This dry red reveals a rich, deep color and a complex bouquet of black cherries, plums, and wild berries, interwoven with notes of black pepper, tobacco, and subtle vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with well-integrated tannins and a long, savory finish, perfectly balancing its fruit intensity with a refined structure.

2019 Crama De Matei “M” $58.50 (Reg. $65)
Fetescǎ Neagrǎ, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
The 2019 Crama De Matei “M” Reserve is a testament to the seamless synergy of Romanian terroir and classic Bordeaux varietals, featuring Fetească Neagră, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. This dry red reserve offers a profound aromatic intensity of dark fruits, blackcurrant, and savory spice, layered with notes of cedar, chocolate, and a hint of dried herbs from careful barrel aging. The palate is robust and concentrated, yet impeccably balanced, with powerful tannins and a lengthy, complex finish.