PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Yarden’s 2021 Merlot is a smooth, full-bodied red from the volcanic soils of the Golan Heights (Galilee), offering ripe red & black fruit, balanced oak spice, and earthy herbal notes. Drinkable now but with good structure to develop well over the next 5-10 years. Great for pairing with hearty fare or sharing by the fire.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Winery / Producer | Golan Heights Winery — “Yarden” label, flagship of the estate. |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Variety | 100% Merlot |
| Region / Appellation | Galilee / Golan Heights, Israel — vineyards on the volcanic plateau, high altitude, cool nights, rocky soil. Kosher for Passover. |
| Oak / Aging | Aged ~18 months in French oak barrels (around 40% new oak) |
| Alcohol / Stats | ~14.5% ABV; TA ~5.6 g/L; pH ~3.60 |
| Component | Flavor / Aroma Notes |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Deep ruby / garnet color, with a little youthful brightness at the rim. (Typical Merlot intensity from Golan) |
| Nose / Aroma | Aromas of ripe red & black berries (plum, black cherry), blueberry; hints of orange marmalade; earthiness; spices; subtle herbal / fresh herb undertones. |
| Palate / Taste | Rich berry fruit core; plum, dark cherry; some coffee/chocolate in background; oak spice (vanilla, cedar); earth / minerality; orange peel/herbal lift; smooth texture, good weight. |
| Finish | Medium-long: berry fruit lingers with oak and spice; gentle tannins; earth and herbal notes fade gradually, leaving a warm, slightly spicy aftertaste. |
Terroir influence: Volcanic soils, elevation, wide temperature swings (warm days, cool nights) give the wine structure, freshness, and balance between fruit and acid.
Well-balanced oak: Use of French oak — some new, some not — adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
Food-friendliness: Full-bodied but not overbearing; enough structure to pair with robust dishes.
Aging potential: Although approachable now, the wine is built to evolve in bottle for several years.
Rich, fruit-forward and smooth — appealing for both those new to Israeli wine and connoisseurs.
Oak and spice add nuance; herbal & earthy notes give it character beyond pure fruit.
Good value for a wine with complexity, origin, and aging.
Now: Great with decanting or letting it breathe, so that secondary aromas open up.
Drink-by: Likely stays excellent for 5-10 more years from vintage (i.e. into ~2028-2031 depending on storage) given its balance.
Food Pairings
Grilled lamb, beef, or game meats, especially with herb sauces (rosemary, thyme)
Mushroom-based dishes (stroganoff, mushroom risotto)
Roasted root vegetables, eggplant dishes, food with tomato sauces
Mild to medium aged cheeses — Gouda, Gruyère, Manchego
Bottle Size: All bottles are 750ML/700ML unless otherwise noted.
21 and Over: Adult Signature Required
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