Red Wine Carmel Mediterranean 2017. Founded in the 1890s by Baron Edmond de Rothschild and named in honour of his father, Carmel is Israel’s largest and most famous winery. The winery was the first to reintroduce commercial viticulture to the region with Edmond sending both French vine cuttings and winemaking expertise to kickstart Israel’s fledgling wine industry. Today the estate produces a diverse range of wines inspired by classic international grape varieties and Israel’s ancient winemaking heritage. Their Mediterranean cuvee is a blend of five grape varieties, Carignan, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah and Viognier, which are grown in the Shomron region. Conceived as a Mediterranean-style wine with a perfect balance between ripe fruit and refreshing acidity, this hearty red blend is aged in small French oak barrels for 15 months. When it is time to bottle Carmel does not use fining and only coarsely filters the wine to preserve the charming natural character of the varieties and the terroir. Luscious dark berries like cassis, blueberry and blackberry immediately burst out of the glass along with undertones of dried herbs, sandalwood and dark chocolate. The first sip reveals a hearty full body, firm yet ripe tannins, and a long finish with winter spice and hints of licorice. The powerful profile is balanced by a bright streak of acidity which makes this a great match for tomato-based pasta dishes, red meats and winter stews.
2017
Red Wine Carmel Mediterranean 2017
Red Wine Casanova Di Neri Brunello di Montalcino 2017. Decant 1 hour before serving. Founded by Giovanni Neri in 1971, Casanova Di Neri has quickly become known as one of Tuscany’s most talented producers. In recent years the running of the estate has passed to Giovanni’s son, Giacomo, and has been the recipient of a wealth of accolades from top wine critics. Casanova Di Neri uses the latest winemaking technology to create the highest quality wines possible from their exceptional vineyards. Their Brunello di Montalcino is crafted with great care from hand-selected grapes which are fermented using wild yeasts in open temperature-controlled vats. The young wine is then aged for an extended period as is traditional for Brunello, in this case 43 months in oak barrels. This is a classic style Brunello with ample elegance and finesse. On the nose there are bold red cherry, plum and dried herbs while the first sip reveals a muscular structure, medium body and streak of acidity which provides tension and balance. The long and persistent finish is lightly spiced from the lengthy oak ageing. The power and intense fruit flavours of this wine make it a great contender for several more years in the cellar, although it can also be enjoyed now along with hearty red meat dishes.
2017
Red Wine Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino 2017. Decanting time: 3 hours An unforgettable experience from one of the more prestigious labels in wine production: Casanova Di Neri. This vintage is made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes is a modern approach to the traditional Brunello which fabulously expands the potential for what this grape varietal has to offer. The dense nose and concentrated palate are boldly enhanced by strong, rich notes of red and black fruit. Opulent aromatic impressions of tar, leather and licorice enhance the palate for an effortless, full mouthfeel that is perfectly grounded by well-integrated tannins and good acidity. This Brunello has excellent, impressive depth and focus and a good core and structure to present a daringly perfect balance. A powerful, persistent personality gradually exposes layers of chocolate and spice, unearthing a succulent, complex minerality. One of the distinctive delights of the Tenuta Nuova Brunello is its characteristically exceptional, long, compelling finish. Very approachable now, especially when given the appropriate time for decanting. A top notch collector’s wine that promises to delight for years to come, making it an enjoyable addition to an enthusiast’s quality wine cellar. This bold, full-bodied wine is enrichened when paired with fish, game, pork, veal or beef. Simply put: this wine is fantastico.
2017