VIBE
We took a bet to see what the bar was previously: my wine companion won because it used to be a Portuguese sports bar. You can kind of tell because the floors haven't been changed. And yeah, it's a bit dark and dim in here but I kind of like the non-chalance about it. I also like the display of the wine bottles in cages and the chalk boards everywhere.
We were lucky to be at the back and have one of the chalkboards in front of us but I'd suggest to have menus because it's hard (and somewhat awkward) to be looking at the top of the room for your wine.
The owners are on it and are very friendly and cool. They also know their stuff.
At around 9:30-10 on a Saturday night, it wasn't terribly busy. Then a group of a few people who were having birthday parties and the hovering over our table for our two chairs started. It was a bit annoying and we're lucky we got there when it wasn't busy. But when it was, it was a buzzy, fun vibe. That said, people were in their own groups. This doesn't seem like a place where you can talk to your neighbour.
WE DRANK
There are no flights here (which I really hope they incorporate in the future) but the glasses are very generous and range from $11 to $14.
We were offered to split our glasses. First up was The Beajoulis Villages 2008/Domaines des Nuglies ($11). I liked the smoothness of it. Wine partner felt it wasn't punchy enough.
The Tempranillo Monastrell Red 2008 ($11) from Bilogia, Valencia offered that robust flavour punch we were looking for. It was sassy! I highly recommend.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
I am really digging this stretch of Dundas West (you have This End Up, The Federal Reserve and the Midfield all pretty much beside each other). I would come here on a quieter night like a Thursday if you don't want to feel boxed in. Almost a full goal! If you want "frou frou" and "ambiance," go to Cocktail Bar or Crush. That said, there needs to be more places like this in the city.