# Sinai Red M Series (2022)

- **Producer:** Psâgot Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot
- **Region:** Judean Hills, Israel
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €24
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, cherry, plum, black pepper, liquorice, vanilla, cedar, smoke, leather, tobacco

## About this wine

Psâgot Winery, established in 2003 by Yaakov and Naama Berg, is located in the northern reaches of the Jerusalem Mountains within the Judean Hills. The estate's vineyards sit at an impressive elevation of 900 meters above sea level on calcareous chalk terraces and hard limestone rocky soils. The 'M Series' designation denotes the Mevushal (flash-pasteurized) kosher-certified edition of Psâgot's core Sinai line, allowing it to be served in formal kosher settings while preserving the winery's signature quality and mountain character.

## Interesting facts

- Every bottle is adorned with a replica of an ancient bronze coin dating back to the Great Revolt against Rome (66–73 CE) found on the estate.
- The coin features the inscription 'For the Freedom of Zion' alongside a vine leaf, bridging the wine to ancient regional heritage.
- To plant vines in the hard limestone terraces, holes must be physically drilled into the ancient bedrock, forcing roots deep for nutrients.
- The winery utilizes a natural subterranean cave discovered on-site as its barrel aging cellar, maintaining natural cool temperatures.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body, vibrant acidity, and integrated tannins make it an excellent partner for rich, savory meats. The structural acidity cuts through the fat of ribeye steak and lamb, while the smooth tannins complement the texture of slow-cooked brisket without overpowering the dish.

## Wine making process

Grapes are hand-harvested in the cool, early morning hours and immediately transported to the nearby winery to prevent premature oxidation. The different grape varieties are fermented separately in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to retain their primary fruit profiles. Following fermentation, the components are blended. The wine is aged for approximately six months, either in French oak barrels or utilizing French oak staves in stainless steel tanks, to impart complexity and smooth the mouthfeel while keeping the wine highly approachable.