The Wine Spectator, the world’s most famous wine magazine, has again tasted Israeli wines. The results were featured in the magazine and on the website. The better scores are listed below. It is noticeable that Israel’s Mediterranean varieties such as Syrah/ Shiraz, Carignan and Petite Sirah seem to be featuring more and more strongly in tastings of Israeli wines. A few years ago tastings would only feature Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlot and Bordeaux style blends. There was also a creditable scores for a number of Chardonnays. The best scores were achieved by Carmel Winery and Clos de Gat.

Carmel, Kayoumi Vineyard Shiraz, Upper Galilee 2005 89 points
Clos de Gat, Harel Vineyards Syrah, Judean Hills 2008 89
Carmel, Appellation Carignan Old Vines, Shomron 2006 88
Segal’s, Galilee Heights Special Reserve Chardonnay, Galilee 2007 88
The Cave, Galilee 2006 88
Clos de Gat Chardonnay, Judean Hills 2008 88
Shilo Cabernet Merlot, Judean Hills 2006 88
Carmel, Appellation Petite Sirah Old Vines, Judean Hills 2006 87
Carmel, Sha’al Vineyard Gewurztraminer Late Harvest, Galilee 2006 87
Barkan, Altitude +624 Cabernet Sauvignon, Galil 2007 87
Clos de Gat, Harel Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Judean Hills 2008 87
Clos de Gat Judean Hills 2006 87