It is with a heavy heart that we begin this week with the news of the SIX HOSTAGES brutally MURDERED just as they were on the cusp of freedom. Our prayers, along with all Israel, are with their friends and family.
This Shabbat we are featuring Tulip Winery’s “White 2023” from their Tulip Series. As is stated on their label, this is truly “more than just a varietal wine”, as it’s a unique blend of two grape types with very different character; Gewurztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc.
Gewurztraminer, is a delicious varietal known for flowery aromatics and somewhat sweet taste. It does especially well in areas known for having warm days and cold nights, so Israel’s Northern mountains is a good spot for it to grow. It is a low acid wine known for its higher alcohol levels. “Gewurtz” is usually bottled as a single varietal, so how cool that Tulip’s winemaker, Dana Beny, has blended it with Sauvignon Blanc.
Sauvignon Blanc, when blended, is usually done so with Semillon; another reason this Tulip White is quite special. Sauvignon Blanc is a dry wine that is usually high in acid. It too is aromatic and tastes of lime, lemon, and when grown in Israel’s warmer climate, passionfruit. This seems a perfect compliment for the “Gewurtz”.
As one of Israel’s medium sized wineries, Tulip currently produces about 300,000 bottles per year. Most of the work for planting and harvest continues to be done manually. The winery was able to maintain a steady production this year, in spite of the war, due to their unique community of workers. Tulip is located in Kfar Tikva, a village where over 200 special needs adults reside and many of whom are employed at the winery, thus providing them with a steady work force.
Israel’s innovative winemakers, such as those at Tulip, are working to blend traditional techniques in wine making with modern concepts and technology. Crafting unique blends with interesting flavors, such as in this wine, is just one of the strategies.
Tulip’s 2023 White, is currently tasting beautifully. With aromas of summer fruit and the taste of green apple, grapefruit, and white flowers, this wine is bright, fresh, and easy to drink on these last days of summer. The sweetness from the “Gewurtz” will make an excellent pairing with Celebrity Chef Jamie Geller’s Moroccan Style Fish (Chrymeh).
Tulip wines can be found at most Total Wine stores and online at Kosher Wine Warehouse, free Shipping with a purchase of $99. Use the code ISRAELWINEGIRL for 10% off your entire purchase.
***Don’t forget to pick up some TULIP FLOWERS for your Shabbat table. The winery is named for owner and winemaker Roy Itzchaki’s mother, who adored tulips.
Israel Wine Girl 
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