Yardens 2021 Merlot is a smooth, full-bodied red from the volcanic soils of the Golan Heights (Galilee), offering ripe red & black fruit, balanced oak spice, and earthy herbal notes. Drinkable now but with good structure to develop well over the next 5-10 years. Great for pairing with hearty fare or sharing by the fire.

Key Specs & Origins

Attribute Detail Winery / Producer Golan Heights Winery Yarden label, flagship of the estate. Vintage 2021 Variety 100% Merlot Region / Appellation Galilee / Golan Heights, Israel vineyards on the volcanic plateau, high altitude, cool nights, rocky soil. Kosher for Passover. Oak / Aging Aged ~18 months in French oak barrels (around 40% new oak) Alcohol / Stats ~14.5% ABV; TA ~5.6 g/L; pH ~3.60

Tasting Profile

Component Flavor / Aroma Notes Appearance Deep ruby / garnet color, with a little youthful brightness at the rim. (Typical Merlot intensity from Golan) Nose / Aroma Aromas of ripe red & black berries (plum, black cherry), blueberry; hints of orange marmalade; earthiness; spices; subtle herbal / fresh herb undertones. Palate / Taste Rich berry fruit core; plum, dark cherry; some coffee/chocolate in background; oak spice (vanilla, cedar); earth / minerality; orange peel/herbal lift; smooth texture, good weight. Finish Medium-long: berry fruit lingers with oak and spice; gentle tannins; earth and herbal notes fade gradually, leaving a warm, slightly spicy aftertaste.

What Makes It Special

• Terroir influence: Volcanic soils, elevation, wide temperature swings (warm days, cool nights) give the wine structure, freshness, and balance between fruit and acid.

• Well-balanced oak: Use of French oak some new, some not adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit.

• Food-friendliness: Full-bodied but not overbearing; enough structure to pair with robust dishes.

• Aging potential: Although approachable now, the wine is built to evolve in bottle for several years.

• Rich, fruit-forward and smooth appealing for both those new to Israeli wine and connoisseurs.

• Oak and spice add nuance; herbal & earthy notes give it character beyond pure fruit.

• Good value for a wine with complexity, origin, and aging.

Drinking Window & Pairings

• Now: Great with decanting or letting it breathe, so that secondary aromas open up.

• Drink-by: Likely stays excellent for 5-10 more years from vintage (i.e. into ~2028-2031 depending on storage) given its balance.

Food Pairings

• Grilled lamb, beef, or game meats, especially with herb sauces (rosemary, thyme)

• Mushroom-based dishes (stroganoff, mushroom risotto)

• Roasted root vegetables, eggplant dishes, food with tomato sauces

• Mild to medium aged cheeses Gouda, Gruyre, Manchego