Hagafen, Napa Valley, Pinot Noir, 2011: This full-bodied wine has a soft and silky structure coupled with spicy and complex strawberry, black cherry, and boysenberry that finishes with notes of roasted coffee and toasty cocoa. A blend of two vineyards, this wine reflects a passion for site-specific Pinot Noir that has evolved with each successive vintage release since 1999. Its Old World structure combined with New World integration will age well for many years to come. $32
Don Ernesto Clarinet Table Red: From winemaker Ernie Weir, Hagafen Wine Cellars, this wine is all about bright times: open it and open your life to its fruity red goodness. Its nose of smoky cherry and vanilla and its mouth of red fruits and silky tannins will make you want to finish the bottle and open another. Put a smile on your face: enjoy Don Ernesto’s Clarinet. $24
Herzog Late Harvest Orange Muscat 2011: This sweet, medium-bodied wine was grown in the golden California sun and harvested at peak ripeness. The result is a bold and aromatic Orange muscat, offering a rich essence of grape, apricot, and orange peel. A smooth and full bodied texture ushers in notes of fresh pineapple, and passion fruit, softly finished by hints of toast. A nice dessert wine. $20
Carmel Appellation Cabernet Sauvignon (Galilee) 2009: Dry red wine produced from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from the upper Galilee. Violet, blackberry, cassis and blueberry aromas immediately waft from the glass. Rich and ripe, the palate boasts more of the same concentrated fruit in a lush, creamy, crushed-velvet-like texture. Notes of charred espresso bean, vanilla pod and licorice root all unfold on the long finish. Balanced, delicious and affordable. $20
Harkham Cabernet Merlot Hunter Valley, Australia 2010 The Hunter Valley is unquestionably the best-known and most highly prized wine region New South Wales. This red wine blend is made from hand harvested Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Aromas of sweet red berry fruits and dusty leathery tannins. Firm but soft on finish and recommended to accompany hearty meat dishes. Perfect to pair with steak, brisket, or roast. $19
Don Ernesto Collage White Table Wine, 2009: From winemaker Ernie Weir Hagafen Wine Cellars, this tangy, lively, golden fruity white table wine is "fun in a bottle." Conveying aromas of apple, peach blossom, and grape, wine is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Good wine shouldn't be complicated. Like a rainbow or a puppy or a picture of yourself when you were slightly flushed, a good wine should make you feel happy to be alive, enjoying life—and Collage is pure fruity goodness. Chill and enjoy in the Succah. One of our very favorites! $15
Sara Bee Moscato, Italy: This was a top selection of ours from last year and many critics offer accolades for this value wine. A wonderful price if you enjoy a sweet, effervescent golden white. Perfect for lunch in the Succah! Trader Joe’s. $7
Let’s toast to 5773. We pray for a sweet, peaceful and prosperous year for the Jewish people and for all good people everywhere. May we grow in our spiritual lives, and rejoice in our homes, in our relationships, and of course, in our kitchens!
L’Chaim!
September 11, 2012