"Carpe Diem" Wine Shop and Bar, Chisinau

Carpe Diem Wine Shop and Bar is a boutique vinoteca that combines a retail wine shop with a relaxed tasting space. Opened in 2011, it has developed into a useful introduction to Moldova’s wine culture, with shelves devoted largely to local producers alongside bottles from established and emerging international regions. The shop currently lists around 160 different wines, while roughly 20–25 Moldovan wines are available by the glass.

The setting is compact and centered on wine, with wooden bottle racks covering much of the interior and tables arranged for individual glasses, tasting flights and small gatherings. Visitors can compare different producers and grape varieties without travelling directly to vineyards, while staff can help explain regional styles and suggest bottles. Small plates are also offered to accompany the wines.

Carpe Diem is also connected with Casa Vinicola Luca, a family producer whose winemaking tradition extends across four generations. Its range includes wines made from grapes such as Viorica, Floricica, Rară Neagră and Fetească Neagră, giving visitors a chance to explore varieties closely associated with modern Moldovan winemaking alongside familiar international grapes such as Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.