With a light Friday evening dinner that consisted mostly of gefilte fish and salads, I broke out my final bottle of the Midbar Chenin Blanc 2012. It is saline and nutty and austere, leaning towards the angular, with the stingy fruit failing to flesh it out. It was a great match for an evening of contemplation, each stimulating sip heightening the anticipation for the fruit and an idea to develop, only for them never to materialize. Then with Saturday's lunch, I had a carignan and syrah dominated blend; the Vitkin Israeli Journey Red 2016. True to the house style, it is fun, smooth and lovely; like an intimate jazz piece by Eddie Daniels. The fruit is present, and so are the rustic tannins, but neither are burdensome nor out of place.
Best Regards,
Pinchas