Everything I Did Not Know About Kosher Wines

Growing up I remember a bottle of Manischewitz on the refrigerator door.  I was not quite sure what it was, but I knew I was not allowed to drink it.  Later I learned that it was kosher wine and that became my knowledge of kosher wine.  My understanding of kosher wine, unfortunately, had not evolved from childhood until now.   A Glass After Work, author Alleigh, joined the Swirl Suite to discuss kosher wines.  It was one of the best shows Swirl Suite has had.  Filled with laughter and so much education about Kosher wines. At the time, we taped the show I was not able to sample any wine.  However, I loved the show so much I purchased a bottle of Tishbi wine after the show to try it for myself.   Tishbi is produced by Tishbi Estate Winery in Zichron Yaakov, Isreal.  The wine is a Cabernet Sauvignon (75%) and Petit Syrah (30%) blend.  Pepper and black currant is on the nose.  It is not a lot of fruit flavors on the palate maybe hints of blackberries. I tasted more minerality, like granite. The body, finish and acidity was medium.  I am not sure what I was expecting. Honestly, I would have never known it was a kosher wine when I tasted it.  It is reasonably price at $15.99.   I purchased my wine at a local wine store; however, Alleigh had suggestions as to where to find kosher wines.  The Mevushal method was used to produce Tishbi Cabernet Syrah.  Mevushal is one of two methods used to designate a Kosher wine.  You can locate the kosher method on the wine label on the back of the bottle. Alleigh discussed both methods in the video blog.  Just to give you a preview Mevushal is when kosher wine is “cooked" or "boiled" during the winemaking process.  It may alter the flavor of the wine. Mevushal keeps the wine kosher. This allows non-Jews to handle the wine. You will find Mevushal wine in kosher restaurants and served by kosher caterers. Get a bottle of kosher wine or grab your favorite wine and watch the Swirl Suite’s latest episode.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Thanks again Alleigh for your time and insight.  Cheers!  View Video Blog   You can view more Swirl Suite episodes on YouTube.