Gamla Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

This red wine from the Gamla series is one of winemaker Victor Schoenfeld's latest projects. He wanted to create an Israeli red wine using the most common blend on earth: Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Well, he more than succeeded, and this red wine is a true masterpiece. But that doesn't happen by itself; Victor spent years testing and researching where these grapes grow best in Israel. He ultimately chose the Galilee region because that's where Israel's premier appellation is located. The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vineyards are located in the northern part, at an altitude of 1200 meters. With deep roots in the volcanic soil, the grapes develop their own unique identity.

Completely hand-harvested for this red wine from Gamla

Once both grapes have fully absorbed the rich soil, they are harvested entirely by hand. Bunches are inspected and placed in small crates. This is done to minimize damage during transport and to obtain the purest juice. Winemaker Victor Schoenfeld wants this red Gamla wine to showcase the beauty of the juice from the Golan Heights. Both grapes are vinified separately, after which the blend is created. The entire wine is aged for a full twelve months in both French and American oak barrels. This gives this red wine from Israel its unique character.

The taste of the Gamla Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

The moment the bottle is opened, the party begins: abundant richness of black fruit and beautiful notes of vanilla and oak burst forth. Pouring reveals a beautiful deep red color with purple glints. We continue, poking our nose into the glass, and we smell an interplay of ripe cherries and cassis, along with light vanilla notes and a lovely spiciness. On the palate, this red Gamla offers a warm mouthfeel with abundant richness of black fruit, spices, oak, and chocolate, along with hints of flowers and French oak.