Rosh Hashanah

We all want a sweet year, but many of us have graduated past the days of sweet Kiddush wines. But don’t write off sweet wines altogether. To wrap up the perfect yom tov meal, consider a lusciously sweet sipping dessert wine such as the Herzog Reserve Late Harvest Orange Muscat.

Working our way backward, if there were ever a time to buy a trophy wine to enjoy with a meal it is at a Rosh Hashanah Seudah. The latest great wine that people don’t know about yet hails from Spain. Clos Mesorah is a blend of three grapes that is knock-your-socks-off fabulous. If you like rich, bold red wines to complement the meal, this high-end bottle is a great bet.

Succot

Succot is early this year and as a result there is a good chance there will be some warm yom tov lunches.I know many people prefer red wine, especially at a yom tov meal, but consider a deliciously refreshing white. The Carmel Kayoumi Riesling is a dry and incredible refreshing version of an old sweet favorite.

If you insist on red during the warm weather, consider something that does well when slightly chilled. Big tannic red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon don’t do as well chilled and can taste metallic. Try a lighter red such as the Tzuba Pinot Noir or Shiloh Legend.

Simchat Torah

At this point it feels like the past month has been all about eating, drinking and then eating and drinking some more. Now is a great time to find those hidden affordable gems—the $20 and under wines that taste like $30-$40 wines. Weinstock Cellar select Cab, Teal Lake Special Reserve Shiraz, Yogev Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot and Segal’s Cabernet/Merlot Special Reserve all come in at $20 or less and can please even the most discerning wine drinker.

A gut year and good yuntif!