Here are my comments and tasting notes for the wines in the new "Yogev" series just released by Binyamina Wineries.

For those not in the know, the Hebrew word "yogev" translates either into a "farmer" or a "man of the soil" and as a tip of the cap to the vintners, the labels of each bottle carefully list the names of the growers and vineyards that supplied the grapes for the different wines. Containing four wines, one white, one rose and two reds, the series is intended to appeal to those just starting to become involved with wine as well as to those who already consider themselves sophisticated drinkers, and in this the series succeeds well, as both groups will find these wines well made, soft, round, easy to approach despite their youth, and good matches to food. The asterisks following my tasting notes indicate that I consider these wines especially good value for money.

Best,
Rogov

Binyamina, Sauvignon Blanc-Chardonnay, Yogev, 2004: Light straw colored with green tinges, this light- to medium bodied unoaked blend of 50% each of Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay offers up aromas and flavors of pineapple, citrus and mango, those on an appealing lightly herbal background. Just the barest hint of sweetness here but that with good balancing acidity. A good match to hors d'oeuvres and a large variety of fish and seafood dishes. Drink now. NIS 35. Score 87. K* (Tasted twice with fully consistent notes 7 and 8 Aug 2005)

Binyamina, Cabernet-Sauvignon-Zinfandel, Rose, Yogev, 2004: Kept in contact with the skins for just enough time for the wine to pick up a deep red berry color, with both varieties fermented separately and then blended just before bottling, this light- to medium-bodied rose shows tempting red berry, strawberry and spicy aromas and flavors. At its best served very well chilled and either on its own or with light fish, veal or chicken dishes. Drink now. NIS 35. Score 86. K * (Tasted twice with fully consistent notes 7 and 8 Aug 2005)

Binyamina, Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot, Yogev, 2004: Medium-bodied but a bit light on the palate, with soft, almost unfelt tannins, this blend of 50% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot was aged intentionally in used oak barrels for only 8 months in order not to let the oak dominate. Straightforward berry, cassis and plum fruits make this a good quaffer. Drink now-2007. NIS 55. Score 85. K * (Tasted twice with fully consistent notes 7 and 8 Aug 2005)

Binyamina, Cabernet Sauvignon-Shiraz, Yogev, 2004: A very successful blend of 50% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, both fermented on their skins for two weeks and aged intentionally in used oak barrels for only 8 months in order not to let the oak dominate. Medium-bodied, with smooth tannins and tempting hints of vanilla and smoky oak that allow the spicy currant, berry, and light earthiness of the wine make themselves felt nicely. Drink now-2008. Score 88. NIS 55. K * (Tasted twice with fully consistent notes 7 and 8 Aug 2005)