Not all that long ago (2 February) I visited the Recanati Winery and posted my tasting notes at

viewtopic.php?f=29&t=30075

I mentioned on that posting that the winery was soon to release their 2006 Special Reserve and their 2008 White Special Reserve. I tasted those wines on my visit but did not write about them, keeping my promise to the winery not to write until their official unveiling. That event has now taken place and my tasting notes follow. What can I say other than a rousing "Bravo" to the winery.

Best
Rogov

Recanati, Special Reserve, 2006: Recanati's top-of-the wine release, this year a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot. Aged for 19 months in barriques, of which 80% were new, showing full-bodied with still firm tannins along with generous wood and acidity. No fear, however, for those are settling in nicely and show fine balance with fruits yielding a structure that bodes very well for the future. On the nose and palate hints of chocolate, espresso coffee and tobacco to support rich berry, currant and licorice notes, all coming to a powerful but long and graceful finish. Approachable now but best to cellar this one as best drinking will start only in 2012. The wine should cellar well until 2018. NIS 179. Score 93. (Tasted twice with consistent notes 2 and 17 Feb 2010)

Recanati, Special Reserve, White, 2008: The winery's first white release in their Special Reserve series. A blend of about one-third each Viognier, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc (the Sauvignon Blanc from vieilles vignes). Oak aged for 8 months in Burgundy oak barrels, an aromatic blend, full-bodied and powerful but with finesse and elegance. Fine balance between light cedar notes, acidity and fruits, opening with peaches and tropical fruit, going on to melon and pears, all lingering nicely on the palate. A wine that will develop a more mineral background as it opens. A release of only 2,000 bottles so consider buying six now in order to follow the wine as it develops. Drink now-2014. Score 92. (Tasted 2 Feb 2010)