Tzom Kal.  Tomorrow begins Yom Kippur.  Yom Kippur is one of the most holy days in the Jewish Calendar, and it starts with a fasting before sun down the day prior.  This fasting lasts for 24 hours, and is the last day you can atone for the actions logged in G-ds books.  If you haven’t yet, and wish to have a sweet new year, now is your chance (and I hope you all have a sweet New Year)!

While it’s not Manischewitz, Israel is producing some very interesting wines that deserve some recognition during this holy day.  How does Barkan Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 demonstrate how well Israel is doing at making great wine?

Sight: A garnet core with a hint of brickish edging.

Smell:  Eucalyptus and mint drive the start of the nose, but blackberries, black pepper, and plums all come together to drive a cohesive nose.  Touches of vanilla and oak add to the depth.

Sip:  Full bodied, it’s has plenty of acidity to keep it lively.  Deep blackberry flavors comingle with plums, mint, and notes of jalapeño.   There are notes of earth and herbs add depth to the deeper, dark fruit elements.

Savor:  The ending has a strong amount of tannins, but a deep, concentrated plum flavor.  Notes of prune and blackberries come through, and add good depth with notes of herbs.

Barkan Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is a smooth Cabernet with a deep elements of dark fruit.  While the spice and oak notes are lowered, there’s a deep amount of jammy and concentrated dark fruit.  The fruit flavors are delicious, and the tannins are forward enough for great food pairings.  If Barkan Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is an indication of the potential of Israel, then there’s amazing value to be had from the region.

Verdict:  Blackberries, Plums, Mint, Prune
Rating: 87
Price: $10
Galie, Israel

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*My friend Kaet contributed to this article, and is looking for a wonderful Jewish man in his early thirties looking to get married.  If you’re looking to date in the Albany area of upstate New York, please contact me via the contact page!