I often get asked how I choose the wineries that I write about. The answer since COVID at least has been the same - I write about those that invite me to taste. It’s really that simple - I’m easy like that. And so a few weeks ago, I got a text from Eli Shiran … Continue reading Shiran Winery 2021 Visit
Viognier
Ya’acov Oryah 2020 Portfolio Tasting
This is the last post that I “owe” from tastings that happened a couple of months ago. As we say in Hebrew – Achron Achron Chaviv – which can be roughly translated as last but certainly not least – Ya’acov Oryah. As always, let me start by saying Ya’acov is a friend, and while I … Continue reading Ya’acov Oryah 2020 Portfolio Tasting
Covenant Israel Wine Club Dinner at Herbert Samuel Restaurant
At RCC’s I often lament the fact that we have excellent food and excellent wines, but it is logistically impossible to actually pair the two properly in advance. Sometimes it works out by chance, often times, the two pieces of the puzzle are enjoyed separately. Every once in a while, when planning a dinner at … Continue reading Covenant Israel Wine Club Dinner at Herbert Samuel Restaurant
The Great Experiment
Apologies for what will be a VERY long post – there was a lot to cover. Also - full disclaimer – Ya’acov Oryah is a friend. I don’t believe that impacts how I rate his wine, but it’s important for you to know that for the sake of transparency. “The true method of knowledge is … Continue reading The Great Experiment
Ya’acov Oryah 2019 Portfolio Tasting and a lot more
Note: Before I start, I just want to disclose that Ya'acov is a friend. While I don't believe that our friendship impacts my notes, I do want make sure that you kind readers have that information in hand when glancing through my scribbles. 2nd Note: Apologies in advance for the length of this post. I … Continue reading Ya’acov Oryah 2019 Portfolio Tasting and a lot more
Nathan’s French Food & Wine Evening
This past Monday night I was privileged to be invited to really special evening of wine and food organized by Nathan Grandjean of France. Nathan sells wine in France and Western Europe via his site Yavine.fr. He is super-knowledgeable and an all around great guy - so if you are ever in Europe and need … Continue reading Nathan’s French Food & Wine Evening
Mid October Trip to the US
Over the last year I have started visiting the US more and more - primarily to have the opportunity to spend time with my grandmother who is 94 and my parents and siblings who I see far too infrequently. I also usually get a chance to enjoy wines with friends that I also see all … Continue reading Mid October Trip to the US
Ya’acov Oryah 2018 Releases
Before I start - a bit of a disclaimer - I consider Ya'acov Oryah a friend. That really does NOT impact what I think of his wines at all - but I think it's important to be up front about that when writing about wine and people expect objectivity. Now that that is out of … Continue reading Ya’acov Oryah 2018 Releases
2018 White Festival at the Hertzlia Marina
This is a festival I really enjoy going to every year. I happen to love the Marina in general as a setting - super chill and relxed - plus there are 3 decent kosher restaurants that are in the connected Arena Mall - Bistro 56, Lechem Basar & Papagaio Prime, so you can take a … Continue reading 2018 White Festival at the Hertzlia Marina
2016 Tabor, Single Vineyard, Shifon, Viognier
This is the third entry in Tabor's Single Vineyard series. This wine puzzled me. On first pour, right out of the fridge at a temp of about 3-4 Celsius (38-40 Fahrenheit). No nose, no acid, some perceived sweetness. The body was watery. When it warmed up to lets say 5-6 Celsius flavors started coming out. … Continue reading 2016 Tabor, Single Vineyard, Shifon, Viognier