The 2004 Petit Castel from French-trained winemaker Eli Ben-Zaken and his Domaine du Castel in the Judean Hills.
A Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon that’s aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, the Petit Castel is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after and praised of Israeli wines — in part, perhaps, because it seems to confound expectations.
The 2004 Petit Castel is soft and medium bodied with little after-taste and low tannin, due to its climate and age-ability. It’s nose is a mix of green pepper and — excitingly — jalapeño. Harmonious. A perfect wine to see in the Jewish New Year next week. Because InterWined.com places the price of the wine at £12.50 (outside of its price ceiling), there is no rating.
