At a glance

Producer

Clos de Gat

Region

Judean Hills, Israel

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$65

Tasting profile

Deep dark fruit (blackberry, black plum), hints of pepper, leather, and subtle smoky notes

Evolution: Developing tertiary notes of earth, game, and dried herbs over next 5-7 years

At peak: Complex interplay of ripe fruit, spice, and savory elements with silky tannins

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, balancing richness

Tannins

Firm and ripe, providing good structure

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage given vintage quality and producer reputation

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2023 to 2032

Current status

Approaching early maturity with potential for further aging

Current condition

Shows robust fruit and balanced tannins with evolving complexity

The 2016 vintage in Judean Hills was a strong year for Syrah with ideal ripening conditions. The wine's firm tannins and balanced acidity combined with its robust fruit concentration support a decade-plus drinking window, peaking once tertiary aromas mature and integrate post bottle-aging.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted game birds, spiced beef stew, mature hard cheeses, and dishes with smoky or peppery sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To soften tannins and open up complex aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Clos de Gat employs sustainable viticulture focusing on water conservation via drip irrigation, minimal chemical use, and integrated pest management. Uses solar power for some vineyard operations and employs lightweight recyclable packaging.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, Clos de Gat's commitment to sustainable farming, water management, and partial renewable energy use contributes positively to its carbon footprint. The wine benefits from local production reducing long-distance transport emissions, though international export increases footprint slightly.