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The New Israeli Wine Guide


Yair Gath, Gal Zohar March 2014

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Table of contents: 3 Preface 4

Introduction by Mr. Adam Montefiore

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Bordeaux blends

7-8

Other blends

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Other red varietals

10-11

Mediterranean varietals and blends

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Syrah

13-14

Cabernet Sauvignon

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Sauvignon Blanc

16-17

Chardonnay

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Other white varietals

20-24

List of wineries

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Hello, Welcome to the first full edition of The New Israeli Wine Guide. After tasting more than 300 wines from the top 100 wineries in Israel, we assembled a list of The Best 70 Wines of Israel. All the wines were tasted double blind, to ensure impartial and completely objective notes and scores. Some of the wines are kosher, and some aren’t. Most of the wines are available outside Israel. The guide is divided to nine categories, each presents the wines won the highest scores in their category. Information about the wineries is available at the end of the guide, with a few descriptive words on each winery penned by us. We would like to thank everyone who helped us bring this mission to completion; the wineries, the messengers, the truck drivers, friends who supported us, those who followed on the social networks, the lucky few who tasted with us, the designer Ron Yadlin, the Hebrew editor Efrat Jeropy and the English editor Assaf Dudai. Hope you’ll enjoy it, at least as much as we did. Gal Zohar & Yair Gat

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Introduction By Adam Montefiore

The New Israeli Wine Guide is a new initiative to rate Israeli wines. Tastings were conducted blind in the strictest and most professional conditions possible and the results are recorded with no embellishment or political tinkering. The information given on each wine is refreshingly clear and not wrapped up in flowery, hard to understand tasting notes. The scores given to each wine are modest and they only have a supporting role. Most attractive is the pithy, informative, two or three word descriptive headline which precedes each tasting note. The guide has been written by two people who shine because of their quiet, thorough approach, modesty and professionalism. They do not come from the ‘look at me’ type of wine critics who wish to make a noise, nor the ‘cut and paste merchants,’ who have nothing new to say. They are both well qualified and respected. The two partners in this project are Yair Gath and Gal Zohar. Yair Gath is the wine critic of Israel Hayom, which has arguably the most regular wine column amongst the daily newspapers in Hebrew. He has a following of wine lovers who have enjoyed reading him over the years. Gal Zohar is an international sommelier, wine educator and wine consultant. He was recently a judge in the International Wine Challenge, the world’s largest wine tasting competition. He is in great demand as a wine consultant in both London and Israel. Both have the ability to speak at eye level with wine drinkers whether they are simply wine lovers, wine professionals or connoisseurs and they are not loud and self-opinionated, like many of the today’s self-proclaimed wine experts. Neither will be the center of attention at wine events, preferring to taste and meet quietly without fanfare, but their views and opinions are of great interest to wine drinkers at every level. Daniel Rogov, z”l, used to publish his annual guide on Israeli wines. His books reached far and wide in the effort to advance ‘Brand Israel’. Since his death, there has been a void. Thankfully the New Israeli Wine Guide has come at exactly the right time. It is an interesting turn-around exercise for someone in the wine trade to judge the wine critics. Maybe each should receive a score?! Wine critics have to have credibility and tastings have to be conducted professionally. Respect is certainly earned not bought. The true success of this initiative will be in its successful continuation, over a number of years. However the first launch of their collective tasting notes is a valuable contribution to Israeli wine and I heartily recommend it. Adam Montefiore works for Carmel Winery and regularly writes about wine in international & Israeli publications.

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Bordeaux Blends

Noble 2008 FLAM

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot Region: Upper Galilee Aged 24 months in oak Alcohol: 14% A Balancing Act Concentration of ripe black fruit dominates the nose together with spiciness, earthiness and a soft minty note. The balance on the palate of ripe fruit, natural acidity and impressive tannic structure is remarkable. Long and generous finish. 90 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Yatir Forest 2009 Yatir

Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot Region: Negev Aged 16 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher Southern Exposure There's soft fruit on the nose along with herbs and a good amount of spice, all thoughtfully balanced. Understated and elegant, the palate is loaded with charming ripe fruit, fresh acidity and some delicate oak. Fine spice, acidity and fruit on the finish. 89+ :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Ayalon Valley 2008 Clos de Gat

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot Region: Judean Hills Aged 20 months in oak Alcohol: 14% The Dark Side of the Valley Rich and concentrated black fruit aromas dominate the nose with some impressive earthy and smoky notes. The plot thickens on the palate where flush and ripe fruit flavours are beautifully balanced with soft acidity, minerality and a long spicy finish. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Limited Edition 2008 Carmel

Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec Region: Upper Galilee Aged 15 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher Killing Me Softly The nose is complex, dominated by fresh fruit and complimented with a light green note. The tension between the fruity, savoury and spicy flavours is impressive and so is the softly crafted tannic structure. Finish is mineral and persistent. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Grand Vin 2010 Domaine du Castel

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Region: Judean Hills Aged 22 months in oak Alcohol: 15% Kosher Classicism An evolving nose of soft spice, dried fruit and a light earthy note. The impressive palate shows concentration, intensity and some ripeness, all held together by fine acidity. Finish is persistent and spicy; and it lingers. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Bordeaux Blends

Kessem 2011 Agur

Petit Caste 2011 Castel

The Young and the Restless Fresh fruit, herbaceousness and soft oak spice aromas make this nose an exciting one. Palate is balancing good fruit and a hint of leafy notes in a soft and refined texture. Oak is present, and so are tannins, on the finish. 87

Freshly Sharp Green capsicum notes on the nose complimented by dry fruit and spice. Oakdominated, the palate has good balance, softness and concentration. Finish is spicy and fresh. 86

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc Region: Judean Hills Aged 6 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

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Metzuda 2009 Tzuba

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc Region: Judean Hills Aged 24 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Kosher Like a Rolling Stone The nose shows development of ripe fruit, dried herbs, spice and toasty oak notes. Palate is thick, ripe with a light meaty character and a firm yet pleasant acidity. Finish is long and mainly sweet. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Grand Vital 2010 Lueria

Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot Region: Upper Galilee Aged 24 months in oak Alcohol: 13% Kosher Heart of Galilee There's some rusticity on the nose with a present oak note and sweetness of fruit. Lots of very ripe fruit here, some green, slightly aggressive tannins and a hint of sweetness. Finish is long, bitter and sweet. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec Region: Judean Hills Aged 16 months in oak Alcohol: 15.4% Kosher

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Other Blends

2010 A Adir

Shiraz, Cabernet Cabernet Franc Region: Upper Galilee Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher Big Is Beautiful Lots of oak spice, pepper and a floral note form a refined and elegant nose. The palate shows very good acidity, a good complexity of fruit and spice and a long and velvety finish. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Misty Hills 2010 Tzora

Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah Region: Judean Hills Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher Elegant Me Pleasant ripe fruit on the nose complimented by lovely oak spice. Palate is extremely complex yet elegant and fine. Ripe fruit notes are well integrated with new oak spice, while the tannic structure is impressive and silky. Finish is long and complex. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Shiraz-Cabernet Adama II 2010 Tabor Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon Region: Upper Galilee Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Kosher

From the Ground Up Floral, mineral and spicy, nose is perfumed and characterized by dry herb notes. The palate gives good fruit concentration, floral notes and a lovely spicy robe all lifted by a soft, fresh acidity. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Special Reserve 2011 Recanati

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Syrah and Carignan Region: upper Galilee, lower Galilee and Judean Hills Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Kosher The Smooth Road Ahead While dominated by new oak and spice, The nose manages to show good ripe fruit and a soft earthy character. The palate is rich, spicy and complex with leather, ripe fruit notes and a long smooth finish. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Coupage 2010 Bravdo

Cabernet Franc, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon Region: Samson Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher Backbone Mountain Generous and perfumed, The nose is dominated by ripe fruit notes and well integrated oak spice. Slightly tannic oak is present on the palate, but is well balanced by a complex, ripe fruit character and a pleasant mineral backbone. Finish is ripe, long and slightly warm. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Other Blends

Makura Merlot-Barbera 2008 Amphorae

Assemblage Eitan 2010 Barkan

Made to Impress Highly concentrated, nose is dominated by rich oak spice and a soft earthy note. The palate is intense with immense ripe fruit notes, an overload of new oak spice and a balancing fresh acidity. Finish in long, complex and a touch alcoholic. 86

An Acquired Taste With a pronounced herbal note, The nose also shows earthy and ripe fruit notes. The Palate is rich and warm with a slightly generic new oak character, and a smooth finish. 85

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Yiron 2010 Galil Mountains

Merlot and Barbera Region: upper Galilee Aged 36 months in oak Alcohol: 13.3%

Makura Blend 2008 Amphorae

Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon Region: Judean Hills Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Kosher

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Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah Region: Upper Galilee Aged 36 moths in oak Alcohol: 15%

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot Region: upper Galilee Aged 16 months in oak Alcohol: 15.5% Kosher

Almost Famous Powerful ripe fruit notes with sweet-like new oak spice dominate the nose. The palate is very rich with sweet fruit notes and a well integrated oak spice, made in a smooth, rounded style. Finish is spicy and alcoholic. 86

Going Strong Rich, sweet and spicy The nose is complimented by ripe fruit notes. The palate is alcoholic, rich and slightly aggressive. Finish is disappointingly short. 85

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Cabernet Sauvignon – Shiraz 2010 Pelter

Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz Region: Upper Galilee and Golan Heights Aged 22 months in oak Alcohol: 13.7% Funky Town With a lovely funkiness on the nose, the fruity notes are well integrated with soft and slightly sweet oak spices. On the palate there's high acidity, rich and ripe fruit notes and a long spicy finish. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Other varietals

Cabernet Franc 2010 Margalit

Cabernet Franc with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot Region: Carmel Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Precise to the Rim Ripe fruit notes, lovely dried herbs, a hint of earthiness and some smoky oak aromas shape into a full and expressive nose. The smokiness is dominant on the palate as well, with green notes, a concentrated and fruity mid-palate, and very smooth tannins. Rich and intense, the finish is impressively long. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Pinot Noir Yarden 2009 Golan Heights Winery Pinot Noir Region: Golan Heights Aged 16 months in oak Alcohol 14% Kosher

Cherry Blossom On the nose there's soft and sour cherry fruit, an earthy aroma and a present new oak spice. Palate is delicate, with good red fruit concentration, an earthy note and a hint of sweet of spice. Long and refined finish. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Malbec Terra 2011 Teperberg Malbec Region: Judean Hills Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 13.6% Kosher

By the Book Tempting ripe red fruit notes on the nose are well integrated with soft oak spice. On the palate there’s a hint of ripe fruit sweetness, good acidity, and a well built structure. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Merlot 2010 Ortal

Merlot Region: Golan Heights Aged 20 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Where There’s Smoke There’s Oak Nose is dominated by new oak, and has a smoky character with some red fruit and chocolate spice coming through. Ripe and slightly sweet, the palate shows better balance between the fruity, and the heavy oaky influence. Finish is again oaky, long and intense. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Merlot Rehassim 2009 Segal Merlot Region: upper Galilee Aged 20 months in oak Alcohol 14% Kosher

Untamed With a good balance of fresh fruit and an earthy character, the nose is pleasant and delicately perfumed. On the palate there's lots of oak co-existing with lots of ripe fruit to form a nice complexity. It finishes long and wild. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Merlot 2010 Ella Valley

Merlot with some Syrah and Petit Verdot Region: Judean Hills Aged 14 months in aok Alcohol: 15% Kosher Double Espresso Rather shy on the nose; a touch of green notes, lots of fruit and an oaky character mask most of the other aromas. Dominated by oak, the palate is rather balanced and shows good acidity, sweet fruit with an overall average feel. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Mediterraneans

Garage de Papa 2010 Lewinsohn Syrah, Petite Sirah and Carignan Region: Upper Galilee and Judean Hills Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14%

Mediterranean at Heart With lots of freshness, the nose is a splendid harmony of fruit, spices and oak. The palate is very well built, with delicious soft fruit, well rounded tannins and impressive concentration. Finish is long, spicy and complex. 90 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Montefiore Red 2012

Malbec, Shiraz and Petite Sirah Region: Judean Hills Unoaked Alcohol: 14% Kosher Young at Heart The nose is perfumed, fresh and floral, and is complimented by a soft orange peel note. Mouthfeel is silky and soft with floral notes and a good amount of light sweet fruit. Finish is generous and long. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Petite Sirah 2009 Vitkin Petite Sirah Region: Judean Hills Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5%

Big is Beautiful An intriguingly rich nose dominated by ripe fruit and an earthy character. The palate is extremely rich, yet balanced. The ripe black fruit, the oak spice, the floral notes and the present tannins all shape into an intense and complex wine. Finish is long and spicy. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Petite Sirah 2010 Montefiore Petite Sirah Region: Judean Hills Aged 14 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Kosher

Finishing on Top The nose is perfumed and gives off lovely floral notes, fresh fruit and an orange peel note. The palate is big and impressive. The wine’s intensity and complexity are well balanced by fresh acidity and a lifting floral note. Finish is long, spicy and intense. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Wild Carignan Reserve 2011 Recanati Carignan Region: Judean Hills Aged 9 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

Into the Wild Dominated by a rich earthy and leathery character, the nose bundles together fruit and spice, balanced by a soft floral note. Packed with fresh acidity, the palate holds good fruit concentration and a pronounced spicy character. The oak is present yet well integrated. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Carignan 2010 Vitkin Carignan Region: Carmel Aged 16 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5%

Unpolished Wild fruit, farmyard, floral and a pronounced meaty note dominate the nose. The balance on the palate of tannins, rough spice notes and a rich ripe fruit leads into a long and complex finish. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Mediterraneans

Antoine 2009 Sea Horse

Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre Region: Judean Hills Aged 14 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Positive Attitude Rich and spicy, the nose shows ripe fruit notes and leather, and has an earthy character to it. The palate is full of sweet notes, well balanced by good acidity. The fruit is unpolished, with a bitter aftertaste and well integrated oak spices. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Layam 2011 Agur

Syrah, Mourvedre Region: Judean Hills Aged 14 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher Out of the Fruitinary The nose shows an unusual blend of dried fruit, floral and fresh fruit notes. With good acidity, the palate is well balanced between ripe tannins, soft fruit notes and an overall enjoyable texture. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Syrah

Shiraz Kayoumi 2008 Carmel Region: Upper Galilee Aged 15 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher

When Typicity Meets Terroir Shy and soft nose, perfumed and floral, with a well placed hint of oak. The palate is characterised by the purity of the fruit, and enjoys a bursting fresh acidity, a complex mid-palate, and a long, fine and mineraldriven finish. 90 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Shiraz Hoshen Vineyard 2011 Dalton Region: Upper Galilee Aged 13 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher

Spot On The nose shows simple and beautiful balance of fruit, earth and spice. The wine’s precession is as impressive on the palate, where soft fruit and elegant spice form a tasty and pleasant mouthfeel. Finish is soft, yet slightly warm. 88

Syrah Yarden Avital Slope 2008 Golan Heights Winery

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At Its Peak Balanced yet extremely intense nose with lots of dried and ripe fruit, floral notes and lots of oak. The palate is soft and concentrated with some crunchy sweet fruit. Balanced by a nice acidity, this is an enjoyable and very drinkable red with a lovely long finish.

Made to Impress While rich, fruity and meaty, the nose is dominated by intense oaky notes. Full and complex, the palate is made of rich ripe fruit notes, some acidity, with a bitter and slightly warm finish. 87

Region: Golan Heights Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 15% Kosher

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Shiraz, Yatir

Region: Negev Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher The Ripe Moment Rich and complex on the nose with dried herbs, fresh fruit and a light smoky note. The rather elegant palate is well-built, rich with ripe fruit and a soft acidity that is nicely balanced by pleasant oak spice. Finish is rounded and long. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Shiraz 2011 Adir

Region: Upper Galilee Aged 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14% Kosher

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon Adom 2010 Saslove

Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2009 Teperberg 1870

Region: Upper Galilee Aged 20 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher

Region: Samson Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

Earth, Wind & Fruit Spicy, earthy, even floral on the nose, this wine is delicately perfumed with a soft yet intriguing aromatic character. Well built, the palate shows good fruit and acidity, nicely balanced with green notes and a light earthy taste. The oak is well integrated and the finish fruity and soft. 88

Taking it Easy Shy nose with some red fruit notes, earth and mint that are nicely integrated with new sweet oak spice. While lacking some power and intensity, the palate shows good balance of soft fruit, acidity and sweet oak spice. Finish is soft and persistent. 87

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Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2009 Assaf

Cabernet Sauvignon and some Cabernet Franc Region: Golan Heights Aged months 18 in oak Alcohol: 14.5% High on Oak With lots of new oak spice, the nose finds its balance of rich black fruit notes and a hint of sweetness. The complex palate shows good balance of ripe fruit and new oak spice, with a well-built tannic structure. Finish is long, warm and complex. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Cabernet Sauvignon Unfiltered 2008 Segal Region: Upper Galilee Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 14.2% Kosher

Rock n' Roll Aggressively ripe, the nose is sweet and spicy with a hint of smokiness. Palate is lush, rounded with the intensity of fruit and a surprisingly fresh acidity. This wine is loud and big yet harmonious, and enjoys a long and concentrated finish. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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Cabernet Sauvignon Makura 2008 Amphorae Region: Juden Hills, Upper Galilee Aged 36 months in oak Alcohol: 15%

A Safe Bet Rich, concentrated and alcoholic on the nose with abundance of sweet fruit and spice. Almost generic in taste, the palate is weighty, slightly silky and intense. The fruit is rich and concentrated, the oak is dominant with soft tannins and very sweet spice. Finish is long and warm. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon Superior 2008 Barkan

Cabernet Sauvignon and some Merlot Region: Upper Galilee Aged 22 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher Heavy Weight There's some unusual sweetness on the nose followed by marked oak tannins and spice. While there's some softness to the fruit on the palate, most of it is masked by a pronounced oaky character. Finish is immense, almost over the top, and sweet. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2009 Binyamina

Region: Upper Galilee, Golan Hieghts Aged 18 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher Uneven Steven Sweet and spicy, the nose presents very little varietal character, or interest. Palate presents lots of sweet and ripe fruit, followed by toasty oak spice and a sharp, unbalanced acidity. Finish is sweet and chocolaty. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Sauvignon Blanc

Shoresh 2012 Tzora

Sauvignon Blanc 2012 Ella Valley

Express Yourself The nose shows soft oak spice notes balanced by a hint of tropical aromas. Beautifully crafted, the palate is rich and complex, and combines citrus with tropical flavours and a slight creamy note. Very well made, elegant and balanced. 90

Opposites Attract Rich and concentrated with lovely pineapple, light citrus fruit and some soft herbaceous notes – so is the nose. With rich ripe fruit on the palate, the wine is soft and shows gentle acidity, rich texture, and a long fruity finish. 87

Region: Judean Hills Aged 7 in month in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

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Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2012 Dalton Region: Galilee Unoaked Alchohol: 13.3% Kosher

Classy Lady Textbook herbaceous notes on the nose, followed by pleasant tropical ones. A very rewarding mouthfeel. The palate is dominated by fresh acidity, soft fruit with a dry and mineral finish. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Sauvignon Blanc 2012Pelter

Region: Golan Heights, Upper Galilee and Judean Hills Unoaked Alcohol: 12.3% Less is More Crisp and fresh citrus fruit on the nose; fun and aromatic. The palate is characterised by high and fresh acidity, green apples, lime and a light herbaceous note. Simplicity at its best. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Sauvignon Blanc with some Semillon Region: Judean Hills Ageing: 7 months in oak Alcohol: 12.5% Kosher

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Chardonnay

Neve Ilan 2011 Tzora Region: Judean Hills Ageing: 9 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

Elegant and complex Oak is present on the nose, yet well integrated and complimented by ripe fruit notes and a mineral edge. The palate is balanced and intense with rich fruit flavors, minerality and fine acidity. Multilayered and complex with a very long finish. 89 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Garage de Papa Blanc 2012 Lewinsohn Region: Galilee Ageing: 8 months in oak Alcohol: 13%

Quiet Power Quite a lot of oak on the nose; toasty and pleasant, it is balanced by citrus and a hint of tropical notes. Palate is skillfully rounded and demonstrates a good mineral-acidity balance, just the right amount of stone and citrus fruit, and a softly spiced finish. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Chardonnay 2010 Clos de Gat Region: Judean Hills Ageing: 12 months in oak Alcohol: 14%

The Spice Boy The nose combines intensity, complexity and richness of oak and fruit. Impressive palate of powerful mouthfeel, good and ripe fruit, fresh acidity, exciting oak spice and a sweetish finish. 88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Chardonnay Volcanic 2012 Har Odem

Region: Golan Heights and Judean Hills Ageing: 5 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher Pleasantville Fresh fruit, aromatic notes and a citrus edge on the nose. Palate shows good balance between the touch of oak, soft fruit and solid minerality. Finish is ripe with a hint of sweetness, but falls slightly short on acidity. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Chardonnay Bravdo 2012 Karmei Yosef

Region: Samson Some of the wine was aged 3 Months in oak Alcohol: 12.5% Kosher Fruit Ninja vs. Candy Crash Fruit-forward, the nose is balanced and shows lovely stone fruit, minerality and citrus aromas. On the palate there's enjoyable acidity and good concentration, which balances the present spicy oak. Jolly candy and rose petal notes at the finish. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Chardonnay Ben Zimra 2012 Adir Region: Upper Galilee Ageing: 10 months in oak Alcohol: 12.5% Kosher

Rough Around the Edges The nose shows floral, classic stone fruit and green apple notes, with rather well integrated oak spice. Much more present than on the nose, new oak spice dominate the palate. Fruit is ripe and finish is long, with slightly rough edges. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Chardonnay

Chardonnay Reserve Unoaked 2011 Bimyamina Region: Judean Hills Ageing: Unoaked Alcohol: 13% Kosher

Tropical Storm Fresh and floral on the nose with a hint of young zesty citrus fruit. Palate is soft, a touch sweet, and shows good tropical fruit with measured refreshing acidity. Enjoyable, yet suffers from its oversimplistic style. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Chardonnay 2012 Luria Region: Upper Galilee Ageing: 12 months in oak Alcohol: 13% Kosher

Romancing the Stone Citrus, stone fruit and very little oak on the nose, followed by some tropical fruit hints and minerality. The palate is pleasant and soft yet rather generic and simple. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

C Blanc de Castel 2011 Domaine du Castel Region: Judean Hills Ageing: 12 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

Trying Hard Lots and lots of oak on the nose masking most of the fruity flavours. Dominated by oak as well, the palate is lovely structured and better balanced with some ripe stone and tropical fruit coming through. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Other white varietals and blends

Semillon Elkosh 2012Dalton

Riesling 2012 Vitkin

Original and Pure A softly fruity, shy and refined nose. On the palate there’s a fine, beautifully integrated acidity alongside a fascinating minerality, complimented by pure citrus fruit notes and a long and pleasant finish. 88

Wild at Heart Shy on the nose with lime and citrus fruit, a hint of minerality wrapped in a soft tropical note. With some rough edges, the palate shows good acidity and fresh citrus fruit, all making a pleasant yet thin mouthfeel, and a rather soft finish. 87

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Semillon-Sauvignon 2010 Midbar

Viogner 2012 Galil Mountains

Uncompromisingly Different Nose shows refined complex notes that are dominated by stone and citrus with a hint of oak. On the palate the sharp acidity is well balanced with good fruit concentration, mineral undertones and a touch of spice. Finish is edgy and precise. 88

V for Viogner With persistent floral notes, the nose also gives ripe tropical fruit aromas. While surprisingly fresh and dry, the palate is quite rich, with good fruit concentration and a long mineral finish. 87

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Montefiore White 2012

Semillon Region: Upper Galilee Aged 4 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5% Kosher

Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc Region: Negev Some of the blend was aged 6 months on oak Alcohol: 12.5%

Blanc 2012 FLAM

Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay Region: Judean Hills Unoaked Alcohol: 13% Kosher Perfect Equilibrium A blend of herbaceous notes and ripe fruit aromas on the nose. The palate is crisp, fresh and very well balanced. The finish combines a hint of sweetness with a crisp mineral acidity. 87-88 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Riesling Region: Judean Hills Unoaked Alcohol: 12%

Viogner Region: Upper Galilee Some of the wine was aged 6 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5% Kosher

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Colombard and Chardonnay Region: Judean Hills Unoaked Alcohol: 13% Kosher

Just Wanna Have Fun An aromatic nose that shows a lovely combination of fresh minerality and a soft herbacious note. Palate is mineral, simple and shows a good structure for enjoying a happy citrus and stone fruit characeter. 87 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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The New Israeli Wine Guide Other white varietals and blends

Riesling Kayoumi 2011 Carmel Riesling Region: Upper Galilee Unoaked Alcohol: 12.5% Kosher

Going Mineral Classic petrol note on the nose with citrus, ripe stone fruit and lots of freshness. Mineral driven, the palate is sharp and fresh with some weight and complexity. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Wright Brothers 2011 Sea Horse Chenin Blanc Region: Judean Hills Aged 8 months in oak Alcohol: 14.5%

Intriguingly Right Dominated by oak, the nose gives off nutty flavours, ripe stone fruit and a spicy edge. The palate is quite sweet, with tropical and citrus fruit, white flowers and a soft mineral acidity. 86 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Chenin Blanc 2012 Assaf Chenin Blanc Region: Golan Heights Aged 6 months in oak Alcohol: 13.5%

The Knights of the Spice Table The nose shows some fresh green notes with a pronounced new oak character. On the palate there’s good concentration, an oily texture and a pleasantly soft finish. 85 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

20

The New Israeli Wine Guide List of wineries

Adir

Binyamina

A family winery operating in one of Israel's best wine regions. Serious and hardworking, most of their wines are a success.

One of the biggest and oldest wineries in Israel. Despite some lack of innovation in recent years, Binyamina manages to produce new and exciting wines almost every year.

Est: 2003 Annual production: 120'000 Address: Park Taasiot Ramat Dalton Telephone: 04-6991039 Email: [email protected] Kosher

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Ortal

Est: 2009 Annual Production: 20,000 Address: Kibutz Ortal, Golan Heights Telephone: 04-6960770 Email: [email protected] Still in its early days, but the quality of fruit and effective winemaking make it a one to watch. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Amphorae

Est: 2000 Annual Production: 100,000 Address: Kerem Maharal Telephone: 04-9840702 Email: [email protected] After a shaky and unpredicted start, the world’s best winemaking equipment and the world's leading consultants made their way to this beautiful winery. The investment can be felt in each and every bottle. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Assaf

Est: 2004 Annual production: 45,000 Address: Kidmat Tzvi Telephone: 054-7790494 Email: [email protected] Maybe the most characterful family winery in the Golan Heights. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Est: 1952 Annual production: 2,600,000 Address: Hanassi 1, Binyamina Telephone: 04-6388643 Email: [email protected] Kosher

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Barkan

Est: 1999 Annual production: 10,000,000 Address: Kibutz Hulda Telephone: 08-9447772 Email: [email protected] Kosher A very big winery, owned by Tempo Enterprise, which produces a massive amount of table wines alongside quality ones; some of them are impressive. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Dalton

Est: 1995 Annual production: 1,000,000 Address: Dalton industrial park Telephone: 04-6987683 Email: [email protected] Kosher A commercial winery with the soul of a small producer. The quality is high and the winemaker is not afraid to think outside the box, or to surprise its customers. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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Har Odem

Yatir

The northernmost winery in Israel. Some of the grapes are sourced elsewhere and some of the wines are surprisingly good.

The wines of Yatir are amongst the highest scoring Israeli wines. The unusual terroir combined with attention to the smallest details yields unique wines with a defined character.

Est: 2003 Annual production: 70,000 Address: Moshav Odem, Golan Heights Telephone: 04-6871122 Email: [email protected] Kosher

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Galil Mountains

Est: 2000 Annual production: 1,000,000 Address: Kibutz Yiron Telephone: 04-6868740 Email: [email protected] Kosher A younger brother of Golan Heights Winery. A small commercial winery that specialises in local Galilean wines. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Vitkin

Est: 2001 Annual producution: 60,000 Address: Kfar Rd. 68, Kfar Vitkin Telephone: 09-8663505 Email: [email protected] A family owned winery in the costal area. One of the pioneers in reviving the local Mediterranean varietals. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Teberberg 1870

Est: 1870 Annual production: 5,000,000 Address: next to Kibutz Tzorah Telephone: 02-9908080 Email: [email protected] Kosher One of the first wineries of Israel, still family owned. The production is well balanced between everyday simples wines, to exciting quality ones. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Est: 2000 Annual production: 150,000 Address: Tel Arad Telephone: 08-9959090 Email: [email protected] Kosher

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Carmel

Est: 1882 Annual production: 15,000,000 Address: Wine St, Zichron Ya'akov Telephone: 04-6290977 Email: [email protected] Kosher Founded by the Baron Rothschild back in the 19th century, this big commercial winery revolutionised the quality of its wines, and is currently producing numerous good and exciting ones. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Bravdo – Karmey Yosef

Est: 1999 Annual production: 40,000 Address: Haerez 5, Karmey Yosef Telephone: 050-2207022 Email: [email protected] Kosher Prof. Shoseyov and Prof. Bravdo, both scientists of modern viticulture and faculty members of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, attend to their small winery that produces regional wines of good, consistent quality. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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Lewinsohn

Montefiore

Ido Lewinsohn, one of the winemakers at Recanati Winery, took over his parent's garage and produces there, along with his father, some of Israel's most exciting wines.

A new and exciting wine project, orchestrated by the Montefiore family. The wines are made at Moni Winery from grapes grown in the Judea Hills.

Est: 2008 Annual production: 5,000 Address: Yair Shtern 33, Hod hasharon Telephone: 054-2444018 Email: [email protected]

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Luria

Est: 2010 Annual production: 22,000 Address: Rothschild 22, Tel Aviv Telephone: 03-53422470 Email: [email protected] Kosher

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Est: 2006 Annual production: 20,000 Address: Moshav Safsufa Telephone: 04-6980105 Email: [email protected] Kosher

Margalit

Established by a family of bespoke vinegrowers in the Upper Galilee. The expertise in viticulture combined with professional winemaking skills yields wines of high quality, year after year.

One of Israel's first and most acclaimed boutique wineries. Set up by Dr. Yair Margalit, who is responsible for the revival of the local Carignan and Petite Syrah.

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Midbar

Est: 2008 Annual production: 30,000 Address: Sadan 8, Artist's quarter Arad Telephone: 08-8662111 Email: [email protected] The first commercial desert winery in Israel. Plans, in the very near future, to produce wines based solely on grapes grown in the Negev. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Est: 1989 Annual production: 20,000 Address: Hatachana 60, Binyamina Telephone: 050-5334433 Email: [email protected]

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Segal

Est: 2001 Annual production: 1,500,000 Address: Kibutz Hulda Telephone: 08-9358860 Email: [email protected] Kosher The original family wine operation was set up in 1787. Today, it is owned by Tempo Enterprise and operates alongside Barkan Winery. Famous for its simple table wines, but also for a couple of iconic, high quality ones. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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Sea Horse

Est: 2000 Annual production: 15,000 Address: Meshek 40, Bar Giora Telephone: 02-5709834 Email: [email protected] The wines are made from local grapes grown in the Judea Hills. The style is a very personal one, and the wines are original and unique. The flamboyant character of the owner and winemaker, Ze'ev Dunia, is evident is every single aspect. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Saslove

Est: 1998 Annual production: 60,000 Address: Kibutz Eyal Telephone: 09-7492697 Email: [email protected] Kosher One of the first local boutique wineries, set up by the legendary winemaker Bari Saslove. The winery was recently sold to private investors. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Agur

Est: 2000 Annual production: 30,000 Address: Moshav Agur, Ella Valley Telephone: 02-9995423 Email: [email protected] Kosher Based on local terroir, the wines of Agur are characterised by the personal touch of the owner-winemaker. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Ella Valley Vineyards

Est: 2000 Annual production: 220,000 Address: Kibutz Netiv HaLamed-Heh Telephone: 09-9994885 Email: [email protected] Kosher A small commercial winery that focuses on well made quality wines sourced from local grapes of the valley. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Pelter

Est: 2001 Annual production: 100,000 Address: Kibutz Ein Zivan Telephone: 077-9100355 Email: [email protected] One of Israel's best white wine producers. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Flam

Est: 1998 Annual production: 120,000 Address: Eshtaol Junction Telephone: 02-9929923 Email: [email protected] Kosher A medium-size family operation, Flam is consistently one of Israel's most popular wineries. As second generation winemakers, brothers Golan and Gilad Flam are now producing celebrated wines with attention to the smallest of details. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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Tzora

Golan Heights

An up and coming star of recent years. The wines are regionally-based, made with great precession, and combine drinkability with elegance and complexity.

The very first Israeli winery to show the world that world-class wines can be made here. Constantly busy improving its wine's quality and the local wine culture.

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Clos de Gat

Recanati

Est: 1993 Annual production: 80,000 Address: Kibutz Tzora Telephone: 02-9908261 Email: [email protected] Kosher

Est: 2001 Annual production: 50,000 Address: Mitzpe Harel Telephone: 02-9993505 Email: [email protected] Based in an old and beautiful stone building at the peak of the Judea Hills, Clos de Gat Winery produces some of the most exciting, fine and elegant Israeli wines. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Castel

Est: 1988 Annual production: 100,000 Address: Moshav Ramat Raziel Telephone: 02-5342249 Email: [email protected] Kosher Quality, terroir and a defined style, all of these make Castel one of Israel's leading, most famous and most consistent wineries. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Est: 1983 Annual production: 5,500,00 Address: Industrial park, Katzrin Telephone: 04-6968420 Email: [email protected] Kosher

Est: 2000 Annual production: 950,000 Address: Industrial park, Emek Hefer Telephone: 04-6222288 Email: [email protected] Kosher Despite the commercial approach of the early days, in recent years the winery produces original Mediterranean wines of great elegance and complexity. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Tabor

Est: 1999 Annual production: 1,000,000 Address: Kfar Tabor Telephone: 04-6760444 Email: [email protected] Kosher An unusual collaboration between Galilean vine-growers and a big marketing company yields the production of classic and elegant wines, which offer great value for money. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::