Q&A: Wine & Food Questions
kosher
Can you explain what makes a wine kosher...or perhaps the question is why aren't all wines kosher? And what steps make wines kosher for passover?
Answer From Expert Roger C. Bohmrich, MW
This is beyond my own area of expertise. I understand from producers of kosher wine and other sources that there are many criteria that must be met for a wine to be kosher. Only Sabbath-observant Jews are permitted to be involved in the winemaking process, from harvesting to bottling. All equipment and materials must be kosher, and, to meet the strictest requirements, no animal products (such as egg whites to fine or clarify the wine) can be employed.
"Kosher for Passover" wines have been kept free of grains, dough and bread.
If you would like to find out more and confirm these facts, I suggest you contact someone with specialized knowledge of this subject.
About The Expert
Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade as an importer and retailer, and at present he is an educator, speaker and consultant. He set up and managed Millesima USA, a New York merchant affiliated with Europe's leader in direct sales of fine wines to consumers. Previously, he served as senior executive of Frederick Wildman & Sons, traveling regularly around the world to visit wineries and taste the new vintage from barrel. Roger became one of America's first Masters of Wine in 1993.
Visit Roger C. Bohmrich, MW's web site
