| Grandious gastronomic affair coming up soon at Eight Wine Bar, featuring the wines of Israel...wines produced by perhaps the most renowned vineyards and boutique wineries such as Yarden, Margalit, Pelter, Ella Valley and Sea Horse. The wines of Israel are very much in vogue nowadays. "A modern boutique wine industry is blossoming in this ancient land, an industry that was founded in 1882 by no less than Baron Edmund de Rothschild of Château Lafite. However, it was not until 1983 when Golan Heights Winery was established that the quality revolution began. Introducing modern techniquesin both the vineyard and the winery, Golan Heights was the first to produce quality, international-styled wines. Inspired by their success, Israel's wine industry quickly expanded and today there are 25 commercial and 150 boutique wineries in production. As part of their modernization game plan, producers imported winemaking expertise and consultants such as Michel Rolland, Richard Smart and Selma Long. The early 1980s saw many vineyards replanted with important international varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Viognier. At the same time,many young Israelis began studying winemaking abroad, and bringing their experience home. Israel's diverse landscape, climates and soil profiles allow winemakers to make an exciting array of wines from large full-bodied reds to fresh, crisp whites. In Galilee, the cool climate mountain vineyards, coupled with volcanic soils, is ideal for producing well-structured, aromatic wines. Encompassing the area around Jerusalem, the Judean Foothills region is finding success with Bordeaux varietals. Shomron, located near the Mediterranean coast, produces rich, full-flavoured wines. The distinctive desert region of Negev is known for its high elevation vineyards and sandy soil".
A luxurious 7 course tasting menu was orchestrated by chef Derek Kennedy, please see below. pairings by wine guru extraordinaire, Zoltan Szabo.
Hors d’oeuvres
#1Wild Mushroom and Cognac Consommé
Parmesan Custard, Truffle Foam
#2 Foie Grois Terrine
Garlic Crouton, Frisee, Toasted Walnuts, Haloumi Cheese, Maple Mustard Vinaigrette, Icewine Apple Jam
#3 Pan Seared Arctic Char
Ricotta Gnocchi, Sage, Orange Zest, Pine Nuts, Spinach, Mascarpone Cream
#4 Cassoulet
Confit Duck Leg, Lamb Sausage, Dupuy Lentils
#5 Oxtail Osso Bucco
Star Anise, Truffle Parsnip Puree, Crispy Onions
#6 Five Spice Roast Rack of Lamb
Grilled Eggplant and Mint Cous Cous Timbale, Rosemary Port Sauce
#7 Dried Fig and Heights Wine Bread Pudding
Caramel Ice Cream, Brandy Toffee Sauce
|
Greater Toronto Wine-An Israeli Journey 
Add To My Calendar
Send to Friend