In 1996 the wine consumption in Israel was only 3.5 liters a head; by 2004 it had doubled to 7 liters a head. The local market is worth US $170 million a year. It is a small, vibrant, & successful industry with a variety and quality that will surprise those who have not visited Israel recently. Here we take a look at some of the best wines from Israel.
Blanc du Castel from Domaine du Castel
It has been labeled as one of the best dry whites in Israel. There is generally good balance, some brightness, some depth, and a respectable finish that lingers and has some intensity. Domaine du Castel is one of Israel’s most prestigious wineries, invariably on most short lists in the “best winery of Israel†debate.
Golan Heights Winery Katzrin Yarden
Yarden’s upper level Bordeaux blends are impressive– although not just because the wine is good. The fruit seems more pungent, sweeter and riper as well. With air it rounds into form and acquires some balance, in fact seeming gentle and elegant eventually, given the well constructed mid-palate.
Barkan Cabernet Altitude +720
The wine is from the Dovev vineyard on Mt. Godrim on the Lebanese border. The wine has a deep concentrated purple, black color. The wine has a unique â€cold climate†aroma of eucalyptus, mint and coffee. The wine is intensely tannic, with tastes of cherries, cassis and herbs. The wine’s finish is both powerful and elegant.
Ben Hanna Winery: Shalem (Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot)
A purple red wine, with fruity aromas of plums, pepper and spices. A full-bodied wine on the palate, balanced and with tastes of Cassis, licorice and hints of coffee.
Flam Classico
Classico from the Flam Winery is a blend of single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – from two distinctly different terroirs, the Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a vineyard rooted in volcanic soil of the upper Galilee 700 meters above sea level. The Merlot is from a vineyard on the slopes of the Judean Hills on the way to Jerusalem.
Yatir Cabernet Merlot Shiraz 2004
Dark royal purple color, soft, with generous black currant, plum, and berry aromas. Best Served With: Medium flavored grilled or saucy chicken or fish dishes.
Margalit Wines
Margalit became Israel’s first official boutique winery, in the early 1990’s with their debut wine, a 1989 Cabernet Sauvignon. It met with immediate acclaim and swiftly earned Margalit a devoted following and a reputation for superb quality.
You might also want to check out a guide to organic wine.
As we say: L’Chayim – To Life !!
