The wait is over, and Wine City Philippines’s doors will soon swing wide open to reveal a new destination for wine enthusiasts and the general public. Not your usual wine store, but a micro-city of bustling destinations with towering displays offering hundreds of unique labels from international sources. We, at Mabalacat City, are lucky to have a Wine Specialist Center in the heart of Dau operating not just a wine store but a coffee shop and bistro in one. Interestingly, this is their first business venture in the northernmost city of Pampanga.

Here are the reasons why you should watch out for the opening of Wine City Philippines:

Wide Choices of Wines

Step into a dimension where every bottle tells a story. Its rows of wine displays are curated as per their geographic origin with flags for prompt visual management and boast an extensive collection, offering a spectrum of flavors, regions, and vintages. From robust reds to delicate whites, and sparkling champagnes to rare finds, our selection caters to every palate and preference. They have a dedicated storage for vintage wines that features a constant temperature to maintain the quality of each bottle.

Great Food Pairings

With their own bistro operations, you can experience wine and gastronomy that dance in perfect harmony. We had a glimpse of its offerings during its pre-event opening event. I tried their choice of wines coupled with premium meat dishes such as Slow Cooked Beef & Chorizo Stew which I find tender cubes of beef drenched with its rich sauce ending with notable hints of fresh basil, Caesar Salad with its flavorful dressing and crisp greens, and Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry with its plump and medium-sized shrimps without the pique and funky aftertaste.

Excellent Service

What I can say is that they have knowledgeable staff who are passionate about all things wine, and stand ready to guide and assist, ensuring every visit is a delightful exploration. During the pre-opening event, I always get personalized recommendations and insights tailored to my preferences based on their current menu. Their team members are always ready to provide the appropriate wine on each food order. I instantly noticed their expertise, from the way they convey the idea to the proper handling of wine glasses and bottles.

Learning Experience

Beyond being just a wine shop, Wine City Philippines is a hub for learning and discovery. Engage in future educational sessions led by their seasoned team, offering insights into wine appreciation, tasting techniques, and the fascinating world behind each label. With its spacious interiors that can hold intimate events such as wine tastings and appreciation events, this is indeed a promising space in the world of Wines. I had a concise and brief wine lesson led by their own Sir Luis. He discussed the usual geographic origins and their profiles, how to categorize wines, and what to look out for.

Inviting Interiors

Located on the Second Floor of the LEFA Building, they occupied the entire offering a spacious experience for their guests. Entering its main hall, the Bistro and Cafe counter is located right beside the entrance, the walls with rows of exquisite wines, about 3,000 in approximate during the pre-opening event, a cocktail portion, and a dining hall at the center. I love the wall-to-wall carpeting and subdued lighting which adds to the premium feel.

Wine-Related Events

The grand opening is just the beginning. Watch out for their thematic events all about wines. Apart from tasting, and learning how to appreciate each and every bottle from possibly exclusive tastings and pairing workshops to themed evenings celebrating different regions, each event promises an immersive and enriching experience all relevant to wine appreciation. Having a brief interview with the owner Ms. Rina, she shared her excitement with this new business venture, not only for the quiet wine community of Pampanga but for everyone else. Follow their official Facebook Page and Instagram Account for announcements of official events.

Strategic Location

Situated in the downtown area of Dau, Wine City Philippines would be accessible and strategically placed between the economic regions of Pampanga and Tarlac. The location invites locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the world of wine without the need for a lengthy journey. It is located above the Landbank Dau Branch and is near other commercial establishments as well.

Watch Out for the Official Opening!

As the ribbon would soon be cut on February 2024 and the corks pop, the grand opening heralds not just a new wine center, but a sanctuary where wine culture thrives in Central Luzon. Watch out for official announcements to embark on the journey of wine indulgence, more discoveries, and learned plus shared passion, raising your glasses to the beginning of a remarkable chapter in the world of local enology.