Several months ago, I was asked about the wines of the Alona Winery. Last week I met the people who established the winery and this week did a formal tasting of the wines.

Founded in 2001 on Givat Nili, not far from the city of Zichron Ya'akov, and with vineyards on the slopes above Nachal Hataninim (the Crocodile River), this small winery was founded in 2001 by the Azoulay and Rabau families. The winery relies on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes from their own vineyards and is currently producing about 5,000 bottles annually. My tasting notes follow.

Best
Rogov

Alona, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005: Dark garnet, full-bodied, with caressing soft tannins and spicy oak, those in good balance with fresh blackberry and currant aromas and flaovors. On the finish a touch of cedar. Drink now-2010. Score 88.

Alona, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004: Dark, almost impenetrable garnet, full-bodied, with red plum, currant and citrus peel in fine harmony with spicy wood, soft tannins and hints of sweet licorice and milk chocolate. Long and generous. Drink now-2009. Score 89;

Alona, Merlot, 2005: Deeo garnet towards royal purple, medium- to full-bodied and with appealing spicy plum and currant aromas and flavors. Graceful and elegant. Drink now-2010. Score 90.

Alona, Merlot, 2004: Dark royal purple in color, medium- to ful-bodied, with good concentration and density and showing black currant, berry, vanilla and creamy notes. Lingers nicely with hints of mocha and cream on the finish. Drink now-2010. Score 90.