The nose on this Romanian blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Feteasca Neagra is dark and smoky with charred oak, coffee and tobacco melding into an herbaceous, woody backdrop. Juicy black plums and cherries are offset by strong grape and wood tannins and notes of cigar smoke and black pepper on the palate. It’s fine now, but a year or two in the cellar might…
— A.I.
(12/1/2010)
Citrus and cream on the nose and palate offer unfolding character in this exotic white from Transylvania. Spices keep the wine lively on the tongue. Rich but balanced.
— S.K.
(12/1/2009)
Warm, toasty aromas with notes of coconut and dill, along with some honey and applesauce are pleasant on this dry Chardonnay from Romania. Unfortunately, the raw, aggressive acidity makes this wine lack balance and harmony, interfering with flavors of fresh apples, lemon and cream.
— A.I.
(12/1/2010)
This intriguing red begins with cinnamon, leather and pepper aromas, followed by a nice balance of warming spices and rich red fruit. Good complexity with tannins that allow for some aging. Pair with grilled meats, robust cheeses.
— S.K.
(12/1/2009)
This Muscat is best served with mildly spicy Asian dishes, where its floral, off-dry flavors will offset some chili heat, while the refreshing acids on the finish will clean the palate. Lychee, melon and tangerine flavors add exotic notes.
— J.C.
(6/1/2005)
While pleasant on the nose and palate with loads of ripe red cherries, dried herbs and a hint of coffee grinds, jagged, chunky tannins and a hot finish make this full bodied Romanian wine a bit unbalanced.
— A.I.
(5/1/2011)
Ambitiously structured, with robust tannins and stern acids, but the fruit doesn’t quite measure up, yielding modest berry and earth flavors. Drink soon with hearty meat dishes, before the fruit fades.
— J.C.
(6/1/2005)
This wine starts with a slightly confected cherry nose, leading into delicate bordering on thin flavors of red fruit and cherry. A very soft wine for fans of light, easygoing reds.
— S.K.
(12/1/2009)