Some of you might have heard that the 2011 vintage is a special one. We find it extremely difficult not to discuss it, everyone is just so excited around. Just like we all enjoyed a (relatively) mild summer, were surprised by the late rains in May and even felt that August is bearable so did the our vines. The grapes benefited from these unusual conditions and as they slowly pour into the winery it is time to enjoy the results. There's a sense of excitement in the air and as the harvest days go by we come to realize the 2011 will not only promisse but also deliver. 

The first Cabernet grapes which arrived earlier this week we special ones. They came from our new "Vadi Phukin" vineyard located in the Judean Hills. Phukin is located at 700m altitude, where the grapes enjoy cooler nights and moderate days. The yields are low and the soil is rocky and poor. It's the 5th year we harvest at Phukin but only the first time we actually use the grapes to make wine. The must tastes great has a vibrant purple colour and superb fruity nose. Although Golan aims it to be a part of the Classico blend it might still make its way into the Reserve wines, it is simply that good.

But it's not all only about Cabernet and so, our Merlot from the "Soresh" vineyard will soon join the Cabernet. This year, Golan carefully looked after this vineyard. He reduced irrigation and treatments to a minimum. The result is impressive, the yields are lower and the berries are significantly smaller than previous years with a very good concentration too.

It's bright and clear to all of us how lucky we are to get such amazing grapes but at the same time it is now up to us to make great wine out of them. We are now waiting for the Upper Galilee grapes from the "Ben Zimra" & "Dishon" vineyards and we hope to keep on seeing a smile on Golan's face each time he sees them...