Yesterday evening (Sunday, 8 August), I attended the unveiling of three wines in the Rechasim series of Segal, each of those from the 2007 vintage. These were re-tastings for me, the wines having earlier been tasted as barrel samples in each case as well as advance tastings in two cases. To my pleasure, each of the wines was showing better now than at my earlier tastings. Simply stated, whatever it is that has to be done is being done very well indeed by winemaker Avi Feldstein.

My thanks to Feldstein and to Shmuel Boxer, the CEO of Barkan and Segal for their courtesies during the tasting.

Best
Rogov

Segal, Argaman, Rechasim, Dovev Vineyard, 2007: To tell the truth, when Avi Feldstein planted a vineyard in Argaman grapes, I thought that somewhat foolish for, as is well known, I have not been the least bit enthusiastic about this Israeli "invention" (a cross between Souzao and Carignan grapes). I may have to eat many of the words I said about this grape, for by finding the right soil conditions, planting at a high altitude and appropriate cutting back in the vineyard, winemaker Avi Feldstein is doing whatever is necessary to bring this grape to its best. Oak-aged for 18 months in new American, French and other European barriques, the wine shows dark garnet in color. Although the nose is somewhat quiet, the flavors are pronounced, on first attack showing raspberries, those yielding comfortably to black fruits and a hint of mint, all of which are complemented by soft, gently gripping tannins. Drink now-2013, perhaps longer. NIS 114. Score 90. K

Segal, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rechasim, Dishon Vineyard, 2007: Oak-aged for 18 months in American, French and Central European oak for 18 months, a dark garnet, full-bodied red with soft, gently caressing tannins and notes of spicy cedar wood. Generously aromatic, opens to reveal of blackcurrants and black cherries, those supported nicely by notes of tobacco and earthy minerals, with fruits and tannins rising on the finish. Drink now-2013. Score 90. K

Segal, Merlot, Rechasim, Dovev Vineyard, 2007: Super-dark garnet towards royal purple, full-bodied, with its once firm tannins and generous acidity now integrating nicely with spicy wood and fruits, showing fine concentration and balance. On opening attack red fruits, those going on to blackberries and black currants, those overlaid with aromas and flavors of freshly cut Mediterannean herbs. Drink now-2014. NIS 114 (about US$ 30) Score 89. K