This post has been sponsored by Barkan Vineyards. All opinions expressed are my own. This message is intended for those 21+. Please enjoy responsibly.
With The Gold Edition Barkan Chardonnay 2024, we're revisiting Israel's Upper Galilee wine region. This bottle comes to us courtesy of the Barkan Wine Cellars, the single largest winery in Israel.
The Gold Edition Barkan Chardonnay 2024 is a fruit-forward, kosher chardonnay that is, in my opinion, thoroughly characteristic of Upper Galilee chardonnay. Accessibly priced and approachably crafted, this is an excellent everyday white wine that pairs deliciously with light entrees and appetizers.
Now, without further delay, let's get tasting.
Wine Overview
Quick Facts
- Winery: This wine is produced by Barkan Wine Cellars. Located in Kibbutz Hulda, Barkan Wine Cellars is Israel's largest winery, operating on 2,200 acres of vineyards across an array of terroirs and producing some 12 million bottles annually. Barkan Wine Cellars' portfolio ranges from the accessibility-priced Classic series to the premium Superieur labels.
- Grape Varietals: This wine is produced from Chardonnay grapes.
- ABV: 12.5% alcohol by volume.
- Price: As of this review, this wine costs about $20 USD.
Region - Upper Galilee, Israel
Today's wine is sourced from Upper Galilee, which is the coldest and rainiest part of Israel. Vineyards are planted at elevations ranging from about 350 meters to roughly 1 kilometer. The higher areas, particularly in the Mount Meron area, experience significant seasonal shifts, including snowy winters. Speaking of snow, Upper Galilee is the coldest and rainiest area of Israel, with its high elevation areas creating wide diurnal temperature shifts (warm days and cold nights), which are critical for grapes to retain their natural acidity. The terroir itself is mountainous and forested, with well-drained, heavy soils. Basalt, terra rossa, and stony ridges combine to give vines excellent hydration and rejuvenation.
White wines are the order of the day in Upper Galilee, with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc being the leaders both in terms of yields and commercial success. However, reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah have also been cultivated with success.
Aromatic and Tasting Notes
On the Nose
Inviting, rich, and deeply pleasant are how I would describe the bouquet. Notes of green apple and ripe pear waft off the top of the glass, inviting a second whiff. Deeper into the glass, citrus peel manifests, laced with hints of guava and tropical fruit essences.
On the Palate
On the palate, the citrus from the bouquet is front and center, with the addition of green apple, carried on a medium-body, with a slightly creamy texture that coats the mouth. Very enjoyable.
Finish
The finish is long, but does not overstay its welcome, leaving notes of citrus in the mouth.
Wine Score
This wine serves admirably as a daily table wine, being technically sound and thoroughly characteristic of Upper Galilee Chardonnay. For the value and quality offered by this bottle, I'll award it a very respectable 89.
Food Pairings
Poultry & Light Meats: Every good chardonnay loves poultry and lighter meats, and today's bottle is no exception.
- Garlic and Herb Roasted Chicken
- This pairing plays off the green apple and citrus in the bouquet to help mellow and balance the garlic, while complementing the herbal notes. In essence, this pairing is as much about the garlic and herbs as it is the chicken itself.
- Light Pork Dishes
- Pork chops prepared with lemon and herbs, or a pork loin stuffed with garlic, herbs, and parmesan, would be ideal pairings.
- Chicken Piccata
- A classic chardonnay pairing. The lemon-caper butter sauce is a textbook chardonnay accompaniment.
Pasta & Vegetarian Dishes: Chardonnay is the go-to vegetarian white wine for a reason - it's delicious.
- Linguine with Lemon and Asparagus
- This pairing is meant to highlight the wine's citrus and white floral notes with springtime freshness.
- Pasta Primavera or Ricotta-Stuffed Ravioli
- A light, creamy sauce with seasonal vegetables.
- Panko Crusted Tofu
- Provides great textural contrast, as the crisp coating will beautifully complement the wine's creamy mouthfeel. Meanwhile, the tofu itself provides a light enough entrée that it won't overpower the wine.
Who is this Wine For?
In my opinion, this is unabashedly a "daily table" wine for those who want a technically sound, clean chardonnay for mid-week meals or large family gatherings.
Where to Buy
As of this review, you can purchase the wine from major kosher retailers such as kosherwines.com.
And that's our review of Barkan Chardonnay 2024. If you enjoyed this review, or sampled the wine or any of its pairings, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you!
Cheers!
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