Description
It all began as if by chance. In the 1970’s, Eli Ben Zaken, born in Alexandria, immigrated with his family from Milan to Israel. With the little money he had, he purchased a piece of land in a community by Jerusalem, with a clear goal to fulfil his dream: to work the land of Israel. Eli built a chicken coop and planted an orchard of various fruit. The first vineyard was planted in 1988, by the family’s home and the winery, in a manner common to the French Bordeaux region Рin high density and low vigour. Four years later, family and friends were invited to the first harvest. This harvest was then set to age for two years, in two oak barrels, which Eli imported from France himself. The first 600 bottles were unveiled in the spring of 1995 and Eli named the wine “Grand Vin”. His friends and supporters showed much enthusiasm, but Eli was still uncertain about the quality of the wine. With the help of journalist Dalia Penn-Lerner, a bottle was sent to the head of Sotheby’s auction house in London. The high praise that was sent in return, convinced Eli to continue planting and open the winery, which was named “Castel” after the nearby Crusaders’ fortress.
Domaine du Castel La Vie Blanc du Castel is a blend of strains – Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and a touch of Gewurztraminer. The wine undergoes a long fermentation period, under cold temperatures and carefully cared for conditions. It is lightly golden in color, refreshing, and offers a rich finish. The wine bears a fruity aroma with a tropical tint and lemony sharpness. The recommended serving temperature is 8 degrees Celsius.
