Nachmani Wines: A First Tasting
 21.05.2011 
 By: Daniel Rogov

Several days ago David Nachmani brought me samples of his wines. Located south of Afula in the Gan Ner community in the north of Israel and part of the Gilboa Regional Council, this small winery relies largely on grapes from Kerem Ben Zimra in the Upper Galilee and the southern Golan Heights.

This was my first tasting of the Nachmini wines. My thanks to David who brought tasting samples to Tel Aviv. Those wanting further information may gain that by tele[phone to 057 7729369 or by email to davidna@actcom.co.il

Best
Rogov

Nachmani, Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot, Shaked, 2008: Made from grapes harvested in the Upper Galilee, oak aged in French and American oak for 17 months. Dark garnet, opens with firm tannins that need time in the glass to integrate and show the blackcurrant, blackberry and bittersweet chocolate notes that run through. Tannins and fruits rise on a moderately long finish. Drink now-2013. Score 88

Nachmani, Shiraz, Reserve, 2008: Dark garnet, reflecting its 23 months in French and American oak with gripping, somewhat chunky tannins and generous spicy wood. On the nose and palate purple plums and blackberries, those complemented by notes of espresso coffee and tobacco, all with tannins rising on the finish. Drink now-2013. Score 89.

Nachmani, Merlot, Reserve, Hagar, 2008: Developed in French and American oak for 22 months, showing gripping tannins, a pronounced impact of spicy oak and generous acidity. Full-bodied, dark garnet in color, opens slowly in the glass to reveal blackberries and currants, those with overlays of crushed berries and milk chocolate. Drink now-2013. Score 88.

Nachmani, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, 2008: The grapes harvested at Kerem Ben Zimra in the Upper Galilee, reflecting its 22 months in oak with generous notes of sweet-and-spicy cedar wood and tannins that, while gripping when first poured, seem to meld comfortably into the wood and fruits.Garnet in color, medium- to full-bodied with traditional Cabernet blackcurrant and blackberry fruits on a background of spices and roasted herbs. Drink now-2013. Score 88.