Monday, November 10, 2008

The Grapes of Galilee Releases New Vintages

It was at a wedding in Galilee where, 2,000 years ago, Jesus turned water into wine. Today, this region is home to The Grapes of GalileeTM, wines of exceptional quality crafted to offer something original and inspirational in the spirit of unity for the various religions that originate from this area.

The Grapes of Galilee are grown next to Nazareth by the Sea of Galilee and watered by the Jordan River, where Jesus was baptized. They are ideal for celebrations such as wedding receptions and communions, or any festive occasions when Christians seek a physical connection to their spiritual homeland.

“The history of this wine is something that we can all share together,” says UC San Diego student Adam Haroz, who founded import company Haroz Vintners with his father, Pini, after being inspired by a trip to Israel. “I hope to provide a way to strengthen the bond between Israel and many other people through bringing wine from Galilee to the houses of the Christian community.”

Israeli wines have made great strides in recent decades, and the Galilee region is best suited for viticulture. The high elevation, cool breezes, marked day and night temperature changes and rich, well-drained soils make the area ideal for The Grapes of Galilee’s cabernet, merlot and chardonnay varietals. All three Grapes of Galilee wines are currently available in the United States. The wine’s suggested retail price is $13.99.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 - Deep royal purple, showing aromas of leather and dark cherry. Flavors focus on dark fruits, some plum, and hints of brown aromatic spice. Good mid palate with firm fruit tannins. Oak and fruit well integrated with a long, fruit-filled finish. Fruit and tannins in synch through to the finish, making the wine fun to drink.
Merlot 2006 - Medium bodied, with soft tannins and generous aromas of red and black berries with notes of cinnamon hearts and some oak. Oak initially frames the palate, which goes to red berries and black cherry, then becomes more integrated; very pleasant.
Chardonnay 2007 - Light gold, medium-bodied, with initial aromas somewhat shy, but clean and focused on pear and tropical fruit--specifically star fruit (carambola) and cherimoya. Very gentle fruit, unoaked, with good acidity gives the wine a clean, lively, fruit-focused finish.

“This is a completely unique venture,” says president Pini Haroz. “No one else is doing anything like this.”

To learn more about The Grapes of Galilee, visit www.haroz.com.

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