Gvaot Winery: Tasting Notes (K)

[Daniel Rogov]

On 1 June, I met with Shivi Drori of Gvaot winery and he gave me samples of several wines for tasting. Life is not always simple and although the wines were tasted in short order (the barrel-tasted wine was tasted on the same day I received it), my notes became mixed with others and a bit of confusion set in. An example of what happens when sometimes the tastings get a bit too far ahead of the formalized notes and my apologies for that confusion. More important, Gvaot continues to be a winery "on the way up" and demonstrates that very nicely indeed with its releases.

Best
Rogov

Gvaot, Cabernet Sauvignon Single Vineyard, Givat Har-El, Gofna Reserve, 2007: Oak aged for 14 mohths, dark, youthful royal purple in color, with notes of spicy and vanilla-rich wood. Firm tannins here but showing smooth and creamy with currant, blueberry, floral and spicy aromas and flavors, all lingering nicely. Needs time to show its elegance. Best from 2010-2013. Score 89. K

Gvaot, Masada, 2006: Made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes that had partly dried on the vines, cold-fermented before being transferred to oak barrels. Medium-, perhaps medium- to full-bodied, with a vague hint of sweetness set off nicely by aromas and flavors of ripe berries and black cherries and, on the moderately long finish, a touch of eucalyptus. Drink now-2011. Score 88. K

Gvaot, Masada, 2007 (Barrel Tasting): Deep, concentrated and full-bodied, with still gripping tannins waiting to settle down but already showing fine balance and structure. Generous black fruits supported comfortably by notes of licorice and dark chocolate. A tantalizing bitter note complemented by the illusion of sweetness makes on think somewhat of a fine Amarone. Long and generous. Best from 2011-2014. Potentially the best wine to date from Gvaot. Tentative Score 90-92. K