Wine is central to Passover, the eight-day Jewish holiday that begins Wednesday night. In fact, four cups are poured at the seder, the communal meal that ushers in the occasion.
But which wine? For generations, Jewish families typically served a sweet red wine, often made from Concord grapes, that adhered to the kosher dietary laws — and specifically, the laws that govern Passover, where leavened products made from grain are restricted. But the world of kosher (and kosher-for-Passover) wine has changed considerably. These days, Jewish consumers have an array of wine choices for Passover, from Italian Moscatos to Spanish Riojas, that meet the requirements.
It’s a reflection of the growing sophistication among Jewish consumers, who, like many Americans, didn’t have much appreciation for wine until relatively recently. Or so explains Gabe Geller, manager of wine education for Royal Wine Corp., a company that specializes in distributing kosher/kosher-for-Passover wines. He notes that his portfolio includes hundreds of bottles, and that the company’s sales have grown by at least 250% over the last decade.
And the kosher-for-Passover market has itself has become a $2.4 billion behemoth, according to Lubicom Business Consulting, a firm that looks at trends among Jewish consumers. Lubicome estimates that annual growth has been between 5% and 8% over the last five years.
So, with all this Passover feasting and sipping, the question remains: What wine to drink? Weekend Sip tried several kosher-for-Passover bottles, and offers these four suggestions:
Bartenura Moscato di Asti 2021, $16: Here’s an Italian sparkler that’s sweet — but not too sweet — and has some intriguing notes (wildflower and nectarines, anyone?). It would definitely make for a solid way to kick off a meal — at the seder or otherwise.
Chateau Roubine Premium Cru Classé Rose 2021, $27: Yes, a true Provence rosé for Passover. You’ll love what’s billed as its “peachy pink color” and you’ll love the taste even more — slightly dry with notes of everything from sour cherries to orange zest. And it’s got a delectable hint of salt on the finish.
Carmel Signature 4 Vats Mediterranean Blend 2021, $35: An Israeli-made wine that’s a most interesting mix of grapes (Marselan, Argaman, Carignan, Grenache, Caladoc and Chardonnay). It’s medium-bodied and very approachable and has what’s described as “ripe yet controlled juicy black and red berry fruits.” Carmel is Israel’s largest winery.
Carmel Signature Volcano Single Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon MacPhea Hill 2019, $65. A great Cabernet from Carmel — and proof that Israeli-made wine has come of age. It’s plenty dark and inviting with well-integrated tannins, fruity notes and a pleasing finish — all closer in style to a table-friendly European wine than a big-and-bold American one.
This post was originally published on Market Watch
