Two Israeli wineries have been included in Oz Clarke’s Pocket Wine Book 2010. Domaine du Castel and Yatir Winery are both listed for the first time signalling more recognition for the advances of Israeli wine.
As far as wine recommendation goes, Castel’s Grand Vin and Yatir Forest are both awarded two stars. ‘C’ Blanc du Castel and Yatir Cabernet Sauvignon are each awarded one star. Two stars equates to: “An excellent wine in its category – one especially worth seeking out.” One star is for: “A particularly good wine in its category.”
In a small section covering Israel at the beginning of the book, Clarke mentions the following wineries: Castel, Yatir, the Yarden label of the Golan Heights Winery and Carmel’s Upper Galilee wines. He cites Clos de Gat and Margalit as the best non kosher wineries.
Oz Clarke, like so many of the world’s preeminent wine personalities, is from Britain. His Pocket Wine Book is in a different format to Hugh Johnson’s, with listings according to the alphabet instead of by country. Thus Yatir finds itself sandwiched between Yarra Valley and Yellow Tail!
Ex-actor Oz Clarke, is one of the most important wine authors and an entertaining TV personality, bringing wine into the home. He is known for his phenomenal palate, irreverent style and enthusiasm. His books on Bordeaux, Grapes & Wines and his Wine Atlas will be on the shelves of many wine lovers. However it is wine educational programs on television for which he is most well-known.
(This story first appeared at http://www.wines-israel.co.il/len/ascrolling%20news/187444.php)
