Dry Red Wine
Varieties:
96% Syrah, 4% Viognier
Growing region:
Upper Galilee – deep and well-drained basalt soil that results in a balanced grape with rich color and aroma.
Karmei Yosef – poor, gravelly clay-like limestone that results in concentrated low crop yields
Production process:
The Syrah grapes were harvested in September 2008, when a small amount (4%) of Viognier grapes that were added to the wine was also picked. The grapes were cold-macerated for three days. After the first stage the cooling process was halted and yeast was added to initiate fermentation when the tank warmed. At the end of two weeks of alcoholic fermentation the wine remained with the skins for a further 10 days before pressing. In November 2008 the wine was transferred to new French oak barrels for 15 months of aging. The blend was then created with wine from the different barrels and bottled with minimal clarification and filtering. The wine continued to age in the bottle for another year in the winery’s cellars.
Tasting notes:
The 2008 vintage had a lower-than-average yield of very ripe grapes balanced by vitality and concentrated fruitiness, intense color and a range of aromatic compounds. Harvesting was late due to a spate of heat waves, which delayed the ripening process for several days. Proper treatment in the vineyards allowed the grapes to develop aroma and flavor components without a significant increase in sugar levels.
The wine has a ruby red-sparkling back hue with aromas associated with smoked meats, flowers, white pepper, blueberries and black raspberries.
Ruby 2008 is a full-bodied, concentrated and balanced wine that is ready for drinking immediately but will continue to develop in the bottle for several years. It is excellent served with lamb and duck breast dishes as well as with rich savory hard cheeses such as Pecorini, Cantal and Manchego.
Wine Composition:
Alcohol: 14%
pH: 3.68
Total Acidity: 5.6 g/liter
No. of bottles produced: Approx. 5,000