Soif Bar a vin, Gatineau, Quebec

I am no sommelier, but thankfully our waiter at Soif Bar a vin [88 Rue Montcalm, Gatineau, QC J8X 2L7, Canada] was.

There are small plates and boards locally sourced and seasonal – but the emphasis is absolutely on wine. Cork walls and maps of wine regions set the scene. I know that I enjoy a dry red and only ever order one drink – a cabernet sauvignon. With this knowledge our waiter paired each of our dishes with a drink to accompany it perfectly – and the experience felt so personal. You can order half glasses and taste more wines. The home smoked trout tartine and ricotta with berries, black pepper, and basil were elegant and dreamy.

The specials of the day were equally as vibrant and scrumptious.

Normally I don’t do duck, but my dining partner wanted to try the confit wings with hot pepper, honey and garlic scape sauce, and grilled beans – I have to say it was incredible.

Crisp and flavorful, tangy and creamy, the greens might have been bite of the evening! Dessert did not disappoint, and we were so invested that we had to try two different kinds. The chocolate hazelnut tart was decadent and delicious.

The almond pastry with cream and peaches was bright and delightful.

Five unique small plates paired with wine tailored to our liking along with two desserts that were absolutely the cherry on top – this meal was a most memorable affair.