Cellar for up to 9 years. No need to decant before serving. Founded in the 1890s by Baron Edmond de Rothschild and named in honour of his father, Carmel is Israel’s largest and most famous winery. The winery was the first to reintroduce commercial viticulture to the region with Edmond sending both French vine cuttings and winemaking expertise to kickstart Israel’s fledgling wine industry. Today the estate produces a diverse range of wines inspired by classic international grape varieties and Israel’s ancient winemaking heritage. Their Mediterranean cuvee is a blend of five grape varieties, Carignan, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah and Viognier, which are grown in the Shomron region. Conceived as a Mediterranean-style wine with a perfect balance between ripe fruit and refreshing acidity, this hearty red blend is aged in small French oak barrels for 15 months. When it is time to bottle Carmel does not use fining and only coarsely filters the wine to preserve the charming natural character of the varieties and the terroir. Luscious dark berries like cassis, blueberry and blackberry immediately burst out of the glass along with undertones of dried herbs, sandalwood and dark chocolate. The first sip reveals a hearty full body, firm yet ripe tannins, and a long finish with winter spice and hints of licorice. The powerful profile is balanced by a bright streak of acidity which makes this a great match for tomato-based pasta dishes, red meats and winter stews.