GrapeLines

A review of the Tulip Just Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, the Tulip Just Merlot 2010 and the Glennfiddich Cask of Dreams Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

With the onset of spring it seems appropriate that our next Passover seder wine suggestions are from Israel’s Tulip Winery. Established in 2003 by the Yitzhaki family, the winery rests on a hillside overlooking the Jezreel Valley in Kfar Tikva, a unique community that is home to 200 emotionally and developmentally disabled adults aged 20 to 74. This pastoral “Village of Hope” is recognized as one of the most innovative locations in Israel for adults with special needs. The village has a staff of 85, and 20 full-time volunteers from Israel and abroad, and their philosophy includes integrating the residents within the community at large, and providing creative and productive outlets for them – such as working at the local candle factory, craft workshops or the Tulip Winery.

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A review of Pacifica Evan’s Collection Pinot Noir 2010 and Meritage 2010 along with reviews of two Tomintoul Single Malt Scotches.

Our next stop in the search for wines for this year’s seder is the Pacific Northwest. Relative newcomers to winemaking, both Washington state and Oregon have evolved rapidly to become world-class sources of distinctive white and red wines. Both states are divided by the Cascade Mountain range which separates the wet coastal region from a drier interior area. Known for bright pinot noir, floral riesling and fragrant pinot gris, Oregon’s wineries are mostly located in the valleys of the west side. Washington creates some profoundly delicious cabernet sauvignon, syrah and merlots from grapes grown in the more arid east.

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A review of Odem Mountain Syrah Reserve 2009 and several Benromach Scotch Whiskies.

Traditionally one begins learning the laws of the Jewish holidays 30 days before they begin. This means focusing on Passover just as Purim has finished. Activity that, of course, entails so much more than just hitting the books to refresh ourselves on the dos and don’ts – for one has also to think of potential guests and menus. Naturally, this leads us to ponder which wines to serve.

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Red Burgundy is an ideal wine to serve with Japanese Cuisine.

Sake is the classic accompaniment to Japanese food. Often called rice wine, it actually is “brewed” from rice that has been “polished” to expose the underlying starch. Quality varies depending upon the amount of polishing and whether or not alcohol is added to develop underlying flavors. But there are other choices. One of my favorite pairings with Japanese cuisine is a red Burgundy. However, it wasn’t always that way.

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A review of the Dalton Alma 2009 and two High West Distillery Whiskies.

“May you go from strength to strength” is one of the more common blessings. In the wine and spirits world, “strength” commonly refers to the sometimes controversial subject of alcohol content. In wine, too much alcohol can interfere with how well a wine pairs with food; in spirits, too much dilution interferes with one’s evaluation of that spirits’ character and flavor. Of course, “strength” can also refer to one’s appreciation for the artistry, bravery and longevity of a winery, distillery or brewery.

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A look at the Backsberg Pinotage 2007 and the Auchentoshan 1999 Bordeaux Wine Cask Matured, 11-year-old Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

The re-entry of South Africa into the international community after the end of apartheid resulted in a new appreciation for that country’s wines. South Africa has been producing wines since 1659, and they were very much enjoyed in Europe until the 1800s when unfavorable tariffs and vineyard diseases decimated the industry. Recent investments for modernization and better viniculture practices have elevated South African wines to among the world’s best.

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A review of the Recanati Reserve Carignan Kerem Ba’al 2009 and the Bruichladdich 10-year-old single malt Scotch Whisky.

Australia has Shiraz, Argentina is known for Malbec, Chile for Carmenere and in California Cabernet is king. Whether by design, regulation or chance, nearly every winegrowing region has “its” grape. It adds a level of distinctiveness and sets a local standard whereby newcomers can be evaluated.

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