2004 Golan Heights Winery Cabernet Sauvignon

[dananne]

Chalk up another new experience. I've had a few wines from Lebanon, but this was the first from Galilee in Israel. Going by this bottle, Lebanon wines are better (though, in fairness, Musar makes some pretty good wines, regardless of region of origin). Dark ruby in color, with a nose of cherries. Lighter in body for a Cab -- I likened it to an inexpensive domestic Merlot (simmilar in body to Columbia Crest's Merlot), while Anne found it more like Grenache, but without the spiciness. Cherry flavors dominant, with elements of minerals and plum skins. Somewhat sweet cherry cordial finish. Not a great wine, and for $12 there are many wines I prefer, but it's certanly easy, pleasant, and drinkable. Food-friendly 13.9% alc. Purchased at Whole Foods.

[wondersofwine]

I've had an Israeli Pinot Noir (not very impressive). Willing to try more reds from Israel if the opportunity presents itself.

[Kcwhippet]

We have about 40 Kosher wines in the shop and about half are Israeli. Unfortunately, I haven't tried any of them so I have no opinion. The rest are from Australia, Italy , France and US. I've had the OZ wine - Teal Lake - and the Shiraz is very nice.

[VouvrayHead]

I've had a number of Israeli wines, most of which are unremarkable.
HOWEVER, last Passover some friends of the family whose son is studying to be a Rabbi in Israel brought back a high-end Merlot (I think?) from a visit there.
It was absolutely killer... I wish I remembered who made it, though I doubt it's available outside of Israel and maybe New York...

[winoweenie]

Have has some remarkable wines from Musar over the years. Serge is a real character and his vineyards are such a national treasure that the civil warring factions have a cease-fire so the pickers can get to the Backka Valley and pick the grapes. WW

[Kcwhippet]

That's in Lebanon and the wines aren't kosher.

[dananne]

KC, I think WW was referencing my initial post, where I mentioned Musar/Lebanese wines. Speaking of which, I've learned to not even touch Musar before 10 years, though they often show best at 15. They are remarkable agers, IMHO, and they are always unique and interesting.



[This message has been edited by dananne (edited 08-04-2007).]