2005 Margalit Winery Enigma

The 2005 Enigma is a Bordeaux blend, of two vineyards, Kadita and Binyamina, and three grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (18%) and Cabernet Franc (22%). It is the most successful of this trio, with a graceful start, a bright finish with succulence and grip, and moderate depth. Like its siblings, it shows some tannin with air, and then softens fairly quickly thereafter. About 90 minutes of air was useful here, but not much happened thereafter. It remained charming, elegant and sensual, however, and was a pleasure to drink, even though it faded a bit quickly. Drink now-2014. Margalit, located between Tel Aviv and Haifa in the Mediterranean Coast area, produced its first vintage in 1989, releasing 80 cases of a Cabernet Sauvignon in 1991. Margalit calls itself the first boutique winery in Israel. Annual production today is still only about 1,500 cases. Owners Yatir Margalit and son Assaf emphasize Bordeaux varietals. Although not unqualified successes, this trio of wines should generate some interest, but the prices, at least in the USA, are fairly high for what they are. Importer: Israeli Wine Direct, LLC, Evanston, IL; tel. (866) 469-8708