Recanati Wild Carignan Reserve 2011

Winery: Recanati

Varietal: Carignan

Carignan is thought to have originated in the Aragon region of Spain, but has spread throughout the Old and New worlds due to its unique characteristics and powerful flavors and features. Today, it is most notably cultivated in Languedoc in France, in Algeria, Sardinia and California, where it is most commonly used as a blending varietal, as its strong tannins and high levels of acidity help boost weaker wines and make them more complex. Carignan is often seen as something of a challenging grape varietal for wineries, as although it often produces high yields, it is particularly susceptible to various forms of rot and fungus. However, when handled carefully and given the correct conditions, the results can be stunning.

Region: Galilee

The beautiful Israeli region of Galilee is one of the most famous sites in the world when it comes to cultural and religious history, and yet the wines of this dry and arid region are yet to really make a big impact on the wine stores of the western world. However, the high quality of the produce being made in the region could change all this, as the past few years have been exceptionally good for vintners in Galilee, with a wide range of imported French grape varietals having flourished in the vineyards around the fertile base of Mount Tabor. Perhaps surprisingly, given the difference in climatic conditions, Bordeaux grapes make up for most of the varietals planted in Galilee, and Sémillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot can be found growing extremely well all over the region. Helped by the volcanic basalt soils, these grapes produce wonderfully characterful and flavorful wines, enjoyed by kosher observing Jewish communities and others all over the world.

Country: Israel

For thousands of years, Israel has been an important country for wine production, with major wine regions growing thousands of acres of grapevines in the hot Mediterranean climate. The land itself is ideal for wine production, and has a mineral rich limestone based soil which helps ensure the grapes grow to full ripeness. Many of the vineyards of Israel are located at high altitudes, such as the popular and successful vineyards of Golan Heights in the Galil region, where the cooler temperatures and strong breezes create an ideal environment in which the imported French grape varietals can grow. Indeed, French grape varietals make up for the vast majority of grapes grown in Israel, with Cabernet Sauvigon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes growing in all five wine regions of the country.