Wine and reading – tell us what you're reading, and we'll tell you which wine to savor.

Wine and books share a unique connection – each glass and each page can open doors to other worlds, captivating and striking. In the following lines, we explore several books written by Moldovan authors and offer suggestions of authentic wines from the Republic of Moldova that perfectly match the atmosphere and emotions conveyed by these readings. If you enjoy a quiet evening and want to savor a wine while immersing yourself in the pages of a book, these recommendations are for you.

Ion Druță – „Frunze de dor”

"Frunze de dor" is one of Ion Druță's most beloved works, a profound story about the Moldovan village, about longing, love, and people's deep bond with the land. The rural atmosphere, laden with tradition and powerful emotions, makes reading this book a true experience that invites introspection. For this reading, a strong red wine such as Feteasca Neagră would be a perfect choice. Feteasca Neagră, a deep and robust wine with aromas of dark fruits and subtle spice notes, reflects the tense atmosphere of the story. The wine’s intensity pairs well with the themes of longing and impossible love, creating a perfect balance between narrative and taste.

Ion Druță – „Te blestem să te îndrăgostești de mine”

This book explores complicated relationships, intense emotions, and experiences that leave a profound mark on the human spirit. "Te blestem să te îndrăgostești de mine" captures deep, sometimes paradoxical feelings, and the reading will take you through an electrifying universe. Here, a semi-dry rosé wine would perfectly balance the reading. With fresh aromas of red fruits and a slight sweetness, a Moldovan rosé wine enhances the story’s intensity. Its versatility matches the emotional fluctuations of the characters and provides a pleasant pause in the midst of the tension.

Nicolae Dabija – „Teme pentru acasă”

"Teme pentru acasă" by Nicolae Dabija is a story of love and sacrifice during World War II, a book full of emotional intensity and deep reflections on life and destiny. For such a book, a dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, would be the right choice. Wines of this variety have a strong aroma that mirrors the heavy and overwhelming themes of "Teme pentru acasă." Its notes of blackcurrant and firm tannins add gravity, making it a perfect match for this story of love and suffering.

Nicolae Dabija – „Și tu ești singur?”

"Și tu ești singur?" is a deep exploration of loneliness and inner experiences, a book that speaks about the meaning of existence and personal discoveries. The solitary atmosphere and the invitation to introspection in this book call for a wine that deepens the emotions. A dry white wine, such as Feteasca Albă, is recommended: this delicate wine, with floral aromas and balanced acidity, perfectly accompanies a text that requires meditation and introspection. The wine’s freshness reflects the purity and vulnerability of the characters, highlighting the difference between loneliness and solitude.

Tatiana Țîbuleac – „Grădina de sticlă”

"Grădina de sticlă" is a story of survival and growth, a novel that reveals life’s fragility through the eyes of a young girl navigating a difficult and uncertain world. It is a harsh yet poetic book that explores vulnerability and resilience. A sparkling wine, such as a brut sparkling wine from Cricova, would be the right choice. Sparkling wines have a vibrant freshness and effervescence that contrast with the gravity of the story while subtly complementing the delicate tone and hidden hopes of the main character. The fine bubbles and citrus or floral notes pair perfectly with a story that transcends sadness and brings light into the darkness.

Lilia Calancea – „Bocete de nuntă”

"Bocete de nuntă" is an exploration of traditions and cultural paradoxes, a story that combines moments of joy and sorrow. It is a novel about the contrast between anticipated happiness and unexpected tragedies that can arise in life. A semi-dry white wine, such as a Moldovan Chardonnay, is the ideal choice for this book. The wine has a rich fruit aroma but maintains a certain freshness, similar to the contrasting states within the story. Chardonnay becomes the perfect companion for a reading that delves into profound emotional discrepancies.

Zaharia Cușnir – „Lumea lui Zaharia”

"Lumea lui Zaharia" is a collection of photographs and a chronicle of Moldovan rural life, captured through the lens of an artist who managed to preserve the essence of the traditional village. It is a visual book that brings past details to life, a tribute to simplicity and beauty. For this book, a dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc from Moldova, is the ideal choice. The freshness and clarity of this wine perfectly match the simplicity and beauty of Zaharia Cușnir’s photographs. Sauvignon Blanc, with its citrus and freshly cut grass notes, creates a balance between simplicity and refinement, inviting the reader to savor every detail, just as Zaharia captures each moment through his photography.

In the end, books and wine complement each other, each enriching the experience of the other. As you enjoy a profound reading, a glass of Moldovan wine can add an extra dimension: whether you choose a powerful red or a delicate sparkling wine, these wine and story pairings offer an ideal way to unwind. Turn your reading evenings into a ritual of the senses, where each page and each sip bring you closer to the essence.