Color: Garnet
Aroma: Black cherry, plum, raspberry, Mediterranean herbs, hint of vanilla
Taste: Rich ripe blackberry and plum with notes of chocolate, soft tannins, and refreshing acidity
Body: Medium-bodied
Finish: Smooth and velvety
About the Wine
Merlot is the second most widely planted red grape in both Israel and the world—second only to Cabernet Sauvignon. The grape originated in the Bordeaux region of France, and its name translates to “little blackbird.”
Thanks to Israel’s abundant sunshine and warm climate, Merlot thrives here, producing medium- to full-bodied wines. The intense sunlight allows the grapes to develop rich fruit flavors and spicy undertones, resulting in wines that are smooth yet layered and captivating.
Merlot is known for its signature velvety finish, which comes from its gentle tannin structure. Because the grape has thin skins and few seeds, it contributes less bitterness during maceration (the process where the skins, seeds, and stems soak with the juice).
The grapes for this Recanati Merlot were grown in the Galilee at an altitude of 500 meters above sea level, in soils composed of clay and basalt. After fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak for six months—long enough to add a touch of oak complexity while keeping the fruit character at the forefront. Merlots aged longer (18–24 months) tend to be more robust and reminiscent of Bordeaux-style wines, while Recanati’s philosophy is to craft wines that express Israel’s unique terroir and Mediterranean climate.
About the Winery
Recanati Winery was founded in 2000 by Lenny Recanati and Uri Shaked. Lenny, who came from a background in private equity, had long nurtured a passion for grape growing and winemaking as a hobby before turning it into a successful venture.
The founders’ goal was to bring something distinctive to the Israeli wine market—not by imitating traditional European styles, but by embracing a Mediterranean approach. Their mission was to showcase Israel’s unique terroir by blending ancient winemaking traditions with modern innovation.
Recanati’s vineyards are located in some of Israel’s finest growing regions. The winery focuses on Mediterranean varieties such as Petite Sirah, Marselan, Carignan, and the local Marawi, while also cultivating classic international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. This balanced approach—honoring both traditional and modern styles—has earned Recanati wide respect in the wine world. Many of their wines have received scores of 90 points or higher from leading international critics.
Today, Recanati Winery produces about 120,000 cases per year, exporting roughly 25% to markets around the world.
About the Winemaker
Recanati’s chief winemaker, Kobi Arviv, began his journey in 2006 after studying enology in Israel. He learned every aspect of the craft while working in various roles at the winery before becoming head winemaker in 2016. Under his leadership, Recanati has continued to refine its elegant, terroir-driven style.
Where to Find
Recanati wines are available at many fine wine shops and online at KosherWine.com.
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