Recanati Special Reserve Red (Israel) 2016

93 pts Wine Advocate

The 2016 Special Reserve red is a blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Syrah, 17% Petite Sirah, 13% Carignan and 10% Marselan, aged for 18 months in 60% new French oak. It comes in at 13.8% alcohol. A gorgeous Special Reserve, this shows off its superb mid-palate finesse, beautiful structure and a long finish. It is tightly wound and precise. The grape blend gives this some aromatic earthiness—maybe the Syrah most of all—but that is a nuance and an advantage. This shows character and complexity both. Tight, fresh and rather powerful, this is still approachable if you must drink it now. The tannins are not overly hard. That said, it will certainly keep improving for the next few years and hold well after that. Those with patience will be rewarded.

91 pts Wine Spectator

Well-crafted, with a smoky undertone detailing the currant and blackberry flavors, matched to cedar, herb and black tea accents. Full, integrated tannins offer support through the olive and bay leaf elements on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Carignan and Marselan. Kosher. Drink now through 2024. 825 cases made, 50 cases imported.