Vintages Release: TBD 2019

92 
Galil Mountain ‘Alon’ 2014
Upper Galilee, Israel $19.95 (577866) 15.0% alcohol
This is a kosher blend of 64% cabernet sauvignon/15% syrah/12% merlot/5% petit verdot/4% cabernet franc. It’s dark-cherry hued with a slight, orange-coloured cast. The nose is filled with jammy aromas of cherry and dried red fruit with hints of smoke. It’s full bodied on the palate with a smooth and thick mouthfeel, a delightfully balanced acidity and approachable tannins. Palate flavours of tart strawberry and vanilla with hints of cocoa and coffee persist through the finish. Give this a two-hour aeration/decant before service or keep in the cellar to 2022. Enjoy with a medium-rare cut of roast beef. (Dave Isaacs)

90 
Segal's ‘Special Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Galilee, Israeli $29.95 (223677) 13.5% alcohol
This attractive kosher wine has lovely aromas of dried herbs, smoke, vanilla and cherry on the nose. It’s medium-full bodied on the palate with juicy acidity and good amount of tannins. There are prominent flavours of cherry and vanilla and a long dried-fruit finish. This’ll keep in the cellar until 2025 or can be enjoyed sooner if aerated/decanted for three hours before pouring. Pair with medium-rare beef. (Dave Isaacs)