Yarden Cabernet Sauvignon

Romazini: 3/5 Stars

Robert Parker: 87/100 Points

The 2004 CABERNET SAUVIGNON YARDEN, the "basic" Cab from Yarden (which also makes pricier cuvees like the El Rom and Katzrin), is one of Israel's traditional benchmarks, and one of its few relative values as exported to the USA. It tends to be more expansive and usually sweeter than the pricier bottlings, more Quilceda Creek, if you will, than Mouton. Despite the deceptively easygoing demeanor, they actually hold quite well. This is a little tighter than the '03, understandable given its relative youth. It is also a little fuller in the mouth and, most importantly, less sweet. It has an herbal note on the finish. It shows reasonable depth, some grip and decent length. It is a nicely balanced wine that should be able to age gracefully for several years. The '03 and '04 are comparable in some respects, but I'd confess a clear preference for the sexier, more exotic '03, although some may prefer the relative-that's relative!-austerity of this wine. Drink now-2014.

Golan Heights is Israel's semi-mythical winery, the one that pretty much kicked off the quality revolution that people are now talking about. Its best wines are among Israel's best, although the wide range of products and lack of focus can make it somewhat unpredictable. These are all Kosher (not Mevushal).

The Winemaker

The 2005 Yarden Cabernet Sauvignon expresses characters of ripe dark red and black fruits, layered with notes of earth, spice, chocolate, pipe tobacco and a hint of fresh herb. This rich, complex wine is full-bodied, with concentrated flavor and a satisfying, long finish.
Yarden Cabernet Sauvignon is enjoyable on the young side, but should really be aged for a few years to get the most out of it. The wine will continue to develop and should remain in good drinking condition for a decade or more. This wine is best paired with very flavorful foods. One good combination would be with lamb short ribs braised in red wine, beef stock and aromatic vegetables.