With Passover just around the corner, I wanted to post a few reviews of kosher wines over the next week or so.  The first kosher wine I’m reviewing comes from the Golan Heights in the Galilee appellation in Israel.

Yarden Mount Hermon Red is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.  It’s produced by the Golan Heights Winery in—you guessed it—the Golan Heights.  When I think of Israel, I think hot… too hot for producing wine.  I admit that I haven’t been there and don’t know much about the climatology of the region.  But the Golan (as it’s called for short) is the coldest region in Israel and is has been the source of some very good wine.

The appearance of the Mount Hermon Red is relatively light in color.  Given the grapes varieties used in this blend I was expecting a somewhat deeper color, but the proof is in the tasting.  It has an earthy, herbal characteristic to the nose. Dusty sage and tarragon mingle with plum and raspberry.  The palate is soft and fruity with plenty of plum and cherry flavors.  The finish is relatively long and brings the herbal characteristics from the nose into the back of the palate.  Overall, it’s an interesting, medium-bodied wine that will pair very well with foods.

Wine: Yarden Mount Hermon Red
Variety: Red Blend
Vintage: 2007
Alcohol: 13.9%
Rating: 85
Price: $11.00