Recanati Winery Rose 2022

This Shabbat we are featuring a lovely wine from the Upper Galilee, Recanati’s 2022 Rose, a blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Petite Syrah. It has a beautiful pinkish color and upon opening the bottle one immediately gets a whiff of ripe summer fruits; apricot, peach, and a bit of orange zest – smelling oh so very fresh. On the palette, it does not disappoint with flavors of nectarine, clementine, and some plum. It is a bright vibrant wine and perfect for this Memorial Day Weekend, signifying the beginning of summer! Wine Enthusiast has given this wine 90 points, which is in the EXCELLENT range, and selling at just under twenty dollars, it is quite a bargain.  

With a reputation for growing high quality grapes, the winery was founded in 2000 by Lenny Recanati with Uri Shaked. They had a vision to produce world-class wines for those living in Israel and also to be enjoyed overseas. The original winemaker, Lewis Pasco, was from Chimney Rock in California and laid the blueprint for how Recanati wines would be produced. He was followed by Gil Shatsberg, educated in California, who added his own style to the wines, and today’s winemaker is Kobi Arviv, known for combining ancient techniques with the technological advances of today. The contributions of all are intertwined and make the wines truly special. 

 Recanati focuses on growing true Mediterranean varietals; like Carrignan and Syrah which do so well in Israeli terroir, but also growing the classic Bordeaux grapes that many people enjoy. They are interested in reviving some of the ancient varieties, such as the “Marawi”, which is 3,000 years old and has been growing wild in the region. 

Since Oct. 7th, our friends at Recanati have faced many challenges. The winery itself is located just 7.6 km from the Lebanon border, so like other wineries in the area there are many obstacles related to producing wine for both consumption within the country and for export. Recanati produces over 900,000 bottles a year and is doing everything they can to make sure grapes are grown, cared for, harvested, and wine continues to be made. They do want us to know they are sorry to report their Visitor Center is currently closed , but will keep us informed as the situation changes. 

This Shabbat of Memorial Day in the United States, let’s remember the fallen, those who gave their lives for the many freedoms we enjoy. Let’s also remember our friends in Israel, who are currently fighting for the freedom of their people to be safe in their homes, safe in their community, and safe within their country.

I picked up my bottle at the Shop Rite in Cherry Hill, Nj, but it’s also available at most major liquor stores, wine shops, and of course online .