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In Episode #15, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath welcome Josh Rynderman, owner and winemaker of South Africaâs ESSA Winery.
Joshua Rynderman is a man brimming with audacious energy evident in his easy smile but even more so in his craft. Joshua has built the young ESSA winery of South Africa following training under master boutique winemaker, Benyamin Cantz, of the fabled Four Gates Winery of Santa Cruz, CA.
In this episode, we taste through four Essa Wines:
Essa, Liv & Luv, Western Cape, Rose, 2024
Essa, Altira, Cape South Coast, 2023
Essa, Franschook, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022
Essa, Emunah, Hemel en Aarde Ridge, 2020
Josh discusses the origins and winemaking behind each of these wines. Dr. Kenny Friedman & Rabbi Yisroel Bernath ask Josh about his wine journey and the origin of his South African winery. They cover wide-ranging topics, including climate, terroir, and starting a new winery in the current landscape. Josh talks about his desire to bring his wine to as many people as possible and adding a third kosher certification to his wines. Josh tells Kenny & Rabbi Yisroel his overarching philosophy of making wine âlâsheim mitzvahâ and for the ability of people to make kiddush over his wine.
Kenny & Rabbi Yisroel ask Josh about his vision for the future and thank him for joining their podcast as a special guest.Support the show
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On Episode 14, Dr. Kenneth Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath welcome a very special guest, Vered Ben Saadon of Tura Estate Winery. Tura Represents the resurgence of the ancient vineyards of Samaria, the Shomron, Planted by our ancestors thousands of years ago. Vered and Erez Ben Saadon embody the spirit of modern Israel and a return to our homeland.
They discuss how Tura began out of necessity over two decades ago, and how Tura Estate has grown to a winery producing a quarter of a million bottles a year.
Vered tells the fascinating history of her family, both as Holocaust survivors and as collaborators, her parents' return to Judaism, and aliyah to Israel.
Kenny and Rabbi Yisroel discuss with Vered the current state of the war and how it has affected Tura and the Ben Saadon family, with many seen miracles.
Vered stresses the need, more than ever, to buy Israeli wine, to support the winemakers, and to visit Israel.
Tura Estate Winery can be found at turawinery.comSupport the show
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In Episode #13, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath welcome Kevin Danna, owner and winemaker of Binah Winery, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
First, they delve into what is in their respective glasses, with Kevin drinking the new Cabernet Franc Reserve and Kenny drinking the Merlot, 2022.
They discuss Kevin's winemaking origin story and his fateful journey from landscape engineer to winemaker, beginning in Pinnacle Ridge Winery before starting his own winery. Danna discusses his background in sparkling wine, always Kenny's favorite, in this case, the 2021 Blanc de Blancs. Kevin takes the listener through each step of the process.
Danna speaks about his philosophy in winemaking and the different style he brings to winemaking in a cool climate region, unique to the kosher world. He discusses his path to kosher wine and the ability to use wine to bring people together.
The conversation covers topics such as the production and growth of Binah, the choice of varietals and blends, and the challenges for a boutique winery. They discuss the benefits of the Binah Winery Club, which is direct to customer, with no cost to join, unlimited free shipping, and great discounts. Binah wines can be purchased directly from the winery at binahwinery.com and Wine Club info can be found at binahwinery.com/club.Support the show
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n this episode, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath have a wide-ranging conversation about wines they have recently enjoyed, a wine-tasting comparing similar wines from different regions, and many other topics.
In the first episode since Shavuos, Kenny highlights three different bubblies, each at different price points, and from different regions. The Bonnet-Ponson, the Koenig Cremant, and the Matar Blanc de Noirs. Rabbi Bernath talks about a special wine tasting held with Jay Buchsbaum of Royal Wine in Montreal. One example of wines they paired up was the Chateau Pontet-Canet 2021 vs. the Alfasi Odem Mountain 2018. Kenny and Rabbi Bernath discuss the much-maligned 2021 Bordeaux vintage. The situation in the North of Israel is discussed and the fact that it should be present in the minds of all people.
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In the highly anticipated Shavuos (or is it Shavuot?) White Wine Pick episode, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman choose wines five price categories: Under $15, $15 to $25, $25-$35, $35-$45, and over $45.
Rabbi Yisroel Bernath & Dr. Kenny Friedman in turn surprise and delight each other with their picks. They discuss the lack of appreciation for white wines, oak's influence on white wines, the proper serving temperature for whites, as well as when a white wine can age.
Kenny's Picks:
Recanati, Yasmin, White, 2023
Goose Bay, Marlborough, Sauvignon Blanc, 2023
Hagafen, Dry Riesling, 2023
Binah, Blanc de Blanc, Sparkling Wine, 2021
Carmel, Late Harvest, Single Vineyard, GewĂŒrztraminer, 2019
Yisroel's Picks:
Elvi, Vina Encina, Blanco, 2022
Snow Ridge, Cold Climate, Vidal Icewine, 2020
Hajdu, Pinot Blanc, 2023
Domaine Guillerault-Fargette, Sancerre, 2022
Ya'acov Oryah, A Spark in Silence, Blanc de Blanc, 2017
The hosts again mention that they appreciate feedback and questions and want to hear your picks in each price category.Support the show
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In Episode #10, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman welcome Jon Hajdu, winemaker for Covenant Wines of Berkeley, California, and his own eponymous label, Hajdu Wines.
They discuss Jonâs winemaking origin story and his fateful journey from NY to California and Australia in between, and from being an archaeology and pre-med major at SUNY Albany to making his own first wine in 2005 to being named a Wine Enthusiast magazine â40 Under 40â winemaker in 2018.
Hajdu speaks about his philosophy in winemaking and the different style he brings to both Covenant and Hajdu wines.
Known for his whimsical labels, Hajdu credits his wife, Ellie, and her artistry. He mentions new wines and ideas coming soon.
Hajdu talks about his âmevushalizerâ invention which he has been working to perfect in small batch flash pasteurization and the effects of mevushal on wine â both short and long term. Additionally, he gives insight into the choices of cork for his wines and their ability to keep wine fresh.
The conversation covers topics such as the production and growth of Covenant and Hajdu wines, the decision-making process for the Besomim blend, the marketability of Zinfandel, and the future release of Alicante Bouschet.Support the show
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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman talk about an oft-overlooked aspect of every wine bottle: the enclosure.
First, they introduce a new segment as Rabbi Bernath reads a wine label and Kenny is left to guess which bottle it is.
They then introduce the main topic, first discussing some of the history of cork and its geographical implications.
They discuss each of the enclosures used for wine, including natural cork, synthetic cork, agglomerated cork such as Diam, Vinolok, crowns, and screw caps. They discuss the pros and cons of each enclosure and some of the myths attached.
They tackle the issue of TCA, which causes the wine fault of cork taint, and comes from a contaminant inside the cork which can affect over 3% of all wines enclosed by cork.
Lastly, they talk about an interesting wine they enjoyed over the last week. Kenny discusses the Binah, Blanc de Blancs, 2021, and Yisroel talks about the Jezreel, Icon, 2018.
The hosts mention that they love feedback and questions and leave open the possibility of mentioning peopleâs names on air should they choose.Support the show
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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman invite their first guests, and chat with rockstar winemaker brothers Gabriel and Shimon Weiss of Shirah Wine, of course all while enjoying a glass of Shirah wine.
They discuss the origins of Shirah Wine and their journey in winemaking. The conversation covers topics such as the production, growth of the winery, the decision-making process for blends, the market for white wines, the importance of labels and packaging, and the ageability of their wines.
Gabriel and Shimon discuss the readiness of wines to drink and the aging process. They explain that every wine is ready to drink, but the aging process can enhance or change the flavors. They also discuss the challenges of winemaking, including financial and logistical aspects, particularly for kosher wine. They mention their influences in winemaking and their plans for the future, including the possibility of producing lower-cost wines.
Takeaways
---Shirah Wine's first vintage was in 2009 and has grown from producing 300 cases to 3000 cases per vintage.
---The winery focuses on RhĂŽne varietals but also explores new and interesting grape varieties.
---The decision-making process for blends is flexible and depends on the vineyards and the desired outcome.
---Shirah Wine aims to offer a diverse portfolio of wines to excite customers and maintain brand excitement.
---The labels and packaging of Shirah Wine are designed by Gabe's sister and feature creative and humorous elements.
---Shirah Wine believes in the ageability of their wines and recommends cellaring certain bottles for future enjoyment. Every wine is ready to drink, but the aging process can enhance or change the flavors.
---The challenges of winemaking include financial and logistical aspects.
---Gabriel and Shimon have been influenced by winemakers such as Jonathan Hajdu, Jeff Morgan, Joe Hurliman, and Craig Winchell.
---They plan to continue producing high-quality wines and may explore the possibility of producing lower-cost wines in the future.
---They encourage listeners to support small wineries and express their gratitude for the support they have received.
Find out more about Shirah Wines and become part of their wine club at https://www.shirahwine.com/Support the show
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In the first post-Passover chat, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman discuss their experiences during the Passover holiday and their mutual enjoyment of the Dalton Pet Nat wine. They explore the interesting process of PĂ©t-Nat, or PĂ©tillant Naturel, a sparkling wine made through a single fermentation process right in the bottle. They discuss the history and origins of PĂ©t-Nat and its refreshing and fun characteristics. They also touch on the unique quality of Israeli PĂ©t-Nat and the potential for Israeli winemakers to excel in this style. They answer a fan question on the bracha over cognac and brandy and the conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of kavana (intention) in winemaking and the enjoyment of receiving feedback from listeners.
Takeaways
---PĂ©t-Nat is a sparkling wine made through a single fermentation process in the bottle.
---Israeli winemakers have the potential to excel in producing PĂ©t-Nats due to the country's climate and the preferences of the young and energetic population.
---Dalton PĂ©t-Nat is a unique and enjoyable wine that stands out during the Passover holiday.
---Kavana, or intention, plays a significant role in winemaking and can be tasted in the final product.Support the show
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In the highly anticipated Pesach Seder Wine Pick episode, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman announce their picks. They choose wines only from Israel in four price categories: Under $20, $20 to $40, $40 to $80, and over $80. Additionally, they choose one Moshiach wine from the depths of their cellars. They choose exclusively red wines as these are preferred for the Four Cups. They emphasize the importance of choosing Israeli wines for the Seder and supporting the Israeli wine industry.
In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Kenny Friedman discuss their top wine picks for Passover. The conversation highlights the diversity and quality of Israeli wines and the importance of supporting Israeli winemakers, more so now than ever. They also discuss the significance of remembering and focusing on the Israeli hostages during the Seder, may they be brought home safely, speedily, and in good health now.
Takeaways
---Choose Israeli wines for the Seder to support the Israeli wine industry.
---Consider the price range and value when selecting wines.
---Look for wines that are easy to drink and pair well with the Seder meal.
---Explore different grape varieties and blends for a variety of flavors and experiences. ----Israeli wines offer a wide range of options and are of high quality.
---Supporting Israeli winemakers is important.
---Mentioning a hostage or soldier during the Seder is a meaningful way to honor them.
---Choosing wines for Passover can be a personal and enjoyable experience.Support the show
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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman discuss their recent experiences and preparations for the upcoming Passover holiday, the peak buying season for kosher wine. They discuss the question they receive most often, namely, what wines to drink at the Pesach Seder. They provide recommendations for wines to drink and discuss the tradition of using red wine, the need to drink a certain amount quickly, and the ideal wines to fit the bill. The touch on the importance of including others in the Seder and making them feel welcome. Kenny and Rabbi Bernath talk about the wines they would pull out from their cellars, including special bottles and Israeli wines. They conclude by answering some questions they received from listeners in the past week, including ideal storage temperature for red wines and the best temperature to serve them. They touch on the topic of aeration and decanting, emphasizing that most wines do not need to be decanted. The conversation ends with the hosts expressing their gratitude for their listeners and ask for continued feedback at [email protected]
TakeawaysâPassover is a wine-focused holiday, and it is important to choose wines that are enjoyable and meaningful for the Seder.
âLight-bodied red wines are recommended for the Seder.
âIt is acceptable to drink between the first and second cups and between the second and third cups during the Seder.
âUsing a special bottle of wine for the first Kiddush and thanking Hashem for bringing you to this point can enhance the Seder experience.
âIncluding others in the Seder and making them feel welcome is an important aspect of the holiday. Consider pulling out special bottles and Israeli wines for Passover Seder
âThe ideal storage temperature for red wines is 55 degrees Fahrenheit
âMost wines do not need to be decanted
âChill white wines and rosĂ© before serving, but do not overchill lest you mute flavors
âInvesting in wine can be risky and requires professional storage facilities
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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman discuss the concept of Moshiach wines, the significance of wine in Jewish traditions and the importance of choosing the right wine for special occasions. Rabbi Bernath shares his choice for the wine he would serve if Moshiach came right now, the Matar CB, 2016. They briefly discuss the kosher food scene in Montreal. Kenny discusses a wine he had this weekend, the Chateau Marquisat de Binet, CuvĂ©e Abel, Montagne Saint-Ămilion, 2015, and the significance of distinguishing between aromas, in this case, the presence of Brettanomyces (Brett) vs. tertiary aromas. They take a comment from a listener, exploring the significance of wine in Jewish culture, its place in Jewish history, and the history and significance of saying 'L'chaim' when toasting with wine. The conversation highlights the importance of expanding one's palate and trying different types of wines.
Takeaways
---Wine plays a significant role in Jewish culture and is often used to celebrate special occasions.
---The concept of Moshiach wines refers to the most special and cherished wines that one would serve if the Messiah came.
---The Matar CB 2016 is a recommended wine that Rabbi Bernath would serve if Moshiach came right now.
---Montreal has a renowned food scene, with popular dishes like bagels and smoked meat, though much of it is only âkosher style.â
---Wine aging is a complex process, and the taste and aroma of a wine can change over time.
---Brettanomyces (Brett) is a yeast that can contribute to a distinct aroma in wine, often described as barnyard or Band-Aid.
---The presence of Brett in wine is not necessarily a flaw, and some wine enthusiasts appreciate the complexity it adds to the wine.
---Kosher wine offers a growing opportunity to explore different flavors and expand one's palate.Support the show
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In this episode, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman discuss the most recent news out of Israel in the terrible damage to Avivim Winery due to Hezbollah and the continued importance of supporting Israeli wineries. They also share their experiences drinking Israeli wines on Purim, focusing on one of Rabbi Bernath's Purim wines, the Petit Castel, 2020 from Israel's Domaine du Castel Winery. The conversation touches on the Bordeaux-style blends produced by Castel and the significance of unfiltered wines. The hosts then discuss Kenny's tasting of the Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, 2009 and the expensive hobby of wine drinking. The conversation shifts to the differences between kosher and non-kosher blends of the same winery. They discuss the role of mashgichim in the kosher winemaking process. They conclude by emphasizing the endless topics to explore in the world of kosher wine and the importance of engaging with listeners.
It is more important than ever to support Israel and its wineries.Domaine du Castel is a notable international winery based in Israel and Eli Ben Zaken has made a great contribution to the Israeli and international wine industry.Kosher runs of wines may have different blends compared to their non-kosher counterparts due to the availability of fruit and timing constraints.Mashgichim play a crucial role in the kosher winemaking process, ensuring that only authorized individuals handle the wine.Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, 2009, comes from an incredible vintage but this might also be responsible for a shorter drinking window.There are always new topics to explore in the world of kosher wine, as each vintage is different and wines age and evolve over time.Engaging with listeners and addressing their questions and comments is important for creating meaningful content in the podcast.
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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Kenny Friedman discuss corkscrews and wine openers. They compare different types of corkscrews and share their recommendations. They also discuss the concept of regifting rabbit corkscrews. The conversation then shifts to open bottles of wine, with Rabbi Bernath sharing his experience with a Dacci Barbara D'Asti wine. They discuss the acidity of Italian wines and how to balance it. They also touch on the government control of Italian wines and the different regulations in various countries. The conversation covers various topics related to Israeli wine and the challenges faced by Israeli winemakers. It discusses the protests against Israeli products, the impact of antisemitism on Jewish artists and businesses, and the challenges faced by Israeli winemakers in the diaspora. The conversation also explores the longevity of open wine bottles and storage methods, the importance of supporting Israeli wine, and the significance of drinking Israeli wine at Passover. It delves into the evolution of winemaking in Israel, the growth of Israeli wineries, and the diversity of Israeli wine regions. The conversation concludes with a discussion on wine choices for Purim and a hope for peace and celebration on the holiday.
Takeaways
There are different types of corkscrews available, and it's important to choose one that is durable and efficient.The Haiku corkscrew is recommended as a high-quality option that is well-made and long-lasting.Italian wines, such as Barbera, often have a good balance of acidity and fruit flavors.Government regulations play a role in the production and labeling of wines in different countries. Protests against Israeli products and businesses are a form of antisemitism that impacts Jewish artists and businesses.Israeli winemakers face challenges in the diaspora, including labeling requirements and protests against their products.Keeping open wine bottles in the fridge can help extend their shelf life, but they should be brought back to room temperature before drinking.Supporting Israeli wine is a way to show solidarity with Israel and its winemakers.Drinking Israeli wine at Passover is a meaningful way to connect with the land and support the Israeli wine industry.The Israeli wine industry has evolved and grown, with winemakers exploring different grape varieties and regions.Israeli winemaking has a rich historical significance, and wineries in Israel offer diverse and unique tasting experiences.Blind tastings comparing Israeli wines to wines from other regions can be a fun and educational way to appreciate Israeli wine.The Israeli wine industry has great potential for continued growth and offers exciting opportunities for wine enthusiasts.Winemaking has become an important part of Israeli tourism, with vineyards and wineries attracting visitors from around the world.Choosing the right wine for Purim can enhance the festive celebration, and supporting Israeli wineries is a meaningful choice.Purim is a time to hope for peace and celebrate with joy, wishing for the safe return of hostages and true peace for the Jewish peopleSupport the show
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In this episode of the Kosher Wine Podcast, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman discuss their backgrounds and passion for kosher wine. They explore the significance of wine in Jewish culture and how it is used to celebrate various occasions. The hosts also highlight the influence of kosher wine in the market and the growth of the industry. They introduce the concept of the Kosher Wine Podcast and their plan to feature different wines in each episode. The episode concludes with a focus on Herzog Wine and a tasting of the Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, discussing its characteristics and oak aging process. In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Kenny Friedman discuss various aspects of wine appreciation. They emphasize the importance of smelling wine and how it enhances the overall wine experience. They also explore topics such as aging and oak in wine, decanting and aerating wine, and the connection between smell and taste. They recommend the Herzog Alexander Valley 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon as a versatile and enjoyable wine, suitable for various occasions. The conversation concludes with an invitation for listeners to ask questions and engage further.
Smelling wine is an essential part of the wine experience and can greatly enhance the enjoyment of the wine.Understanding the aging potential of wine and the impact of oak can help in selecting and appreciating different wines.Decanting and aerating wine can be beneficial for certain wines, but it is not necessary for every bottle.The alcohol content in wine should not be the sole factor in judging its quality, as other factors such as balance and smoothness are equally important.The Herzog Alexander Valley 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a recommended wine for its approachability, versatility, and overall enjoyment.
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