Our Rating
Galilee
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon has a global reputation as a versatile and expressive grape, and the 2019 Feldstein Cabernet Sauvignon from Israel’s Galilee region offers a compelling take on this classic varietal. This wine, produced by Feldstein Winery under the meticulous guidance of winemaker Avi Feldstein, is a kosher-certified offering that balances depth and elegance with a distinct nod to its terroir.
Avi Feldstein, a former poet and writer, brings an artistic sensibility to his winemaking. Known for his innovative approach and prior success with Segal Winery, where he developed the iconic Segal’s Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon, Avi established Feldstein Winery in 2014. The winery is a relatively new player but has already carved out a reputation for producing wines that reflect Israel’s diverse terroirs.
This 2019 vintage is particularly notable as Avi’s first kosher release, signaling his intent to make wines accessible to a broader audience without compromising on quality or character.
The Galilee region, situated in northern Israel, is recognized as one of the country’s premier wine-growing areas. Its high elevation, cool nights, and rocky soils contribute to producing wines of great finesse and clarity.
Avi’s innovative techniques are evident in this bottling. The wine was macerated on the skins for an extended period of 65 days. This approach emphasizes a full aromatic spectrum while ensuring a medium-light body that retains drinkability—a contrast to many overly extracted Cabernets. The result is a wine that prioritizes elegance over opulence.
The wine displays a deep garnet hue, offering a clear and vivid expression in the glass. High viscosity, visible through slow-moving legs, hints at the wine’s 14.7% alcohol content.
Aromatically, the wine presents a medium-plus intensity bouquet that is both complex and inviting. Dominant notes of black cherry and blackcurrant are layered with cedar and licorice, while black pepper adds a touch of spice. Subtle hints of minerality evoke the rocky, nutrient-rich soils of Galilee, creating a sense of place.
The palate mirrors the nose but adds depth and structure:
The 2019 Feldstein Cabernet Sauvignon exemplifies the potential of Israeli winemaking under the stewardship of Avi Feldstein. With a price point of $75, and a C&J value rating of 4. It is a bottle that invites discovery, showcasing how thoughtful winemaking can harmonize tradition and innovation.
For those intrigued by the idea of exploring new frontiers in wine, the Feldstein Cabernet Sauvignon offers a delightful gateway into the rich and evolving world of Israeli viticulture. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for years, it promises a rewarding experience that speaks to both the artistry of its maker and the uniqueness of its origins.
Israel
Galilee
Cabernet Sauvignon
14.7
Avi Feldstein
1 Hour
Now to 2030
Feldstein Winery
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