How Many Types of Kosher Wine Are There?

How Many Types of Kosher Wine Are There?
By Mark Etinger



There is a huge selection of kosher wine on the market, and the internet makes these bottles more accessible than ever before. In fact, all the different varieties of kosher wine can be downright intimidating - with so many options, how are you supposed to find the right bottle for you? If you're having trouble choosing among kosher wines, read on for some different ways to classify your options.

Mevushal

Whether you're eyeing a Bartenura or Herzog wine, one simple factor to consider is whether you prefer mevushal or non-mevushal wine. Traditionally, wine is considered kosher if it has been harvested, produced, poured, and otherwise touched only by Jews that observe the Sabbath. However, the rules are slightly different for mevushal wines. Mevushal wines are heated during processing, after which they are permanently kosher, no matter who touches them.

Mevushal translates literally to "cooked" or "boiled." For many years, kosher wine was actually boiled to achieve its status, but this dramatically affected the flavor of the wine. Today, most mevushal wines are only heated to 194F, allowing them to retain much of their original tannins and flavor. A different method of heating called flash pasteurization is also available.

Region

Wine varies significantly by location, as different regions offer different climates, traditions, and values. For example, wine from California is known for its quaint, family-owned wineries and scenic surroundings. One state north, Oregon is home to the third-highest number of wineries in the country - pretty impressive for a state that battled with prohibition much longer than its peers. The Oregon wine industry is concentrated around an area called Willamette Valley.

Abroad, tourists and locals alike adore the Loire Valley in France, a vineyard-rich region lauded for its white wine, including Muscadet, Chenin Blanca, and Sauvignon. Tuscany, Italy is also very popular, particularly for the legendary Chianti red wine and the opportunity for tourists to stomp their own grapes. Israeli wine, alternatively, is heavily influenced by the French techniques and grape varietals that revived the industry in the late 19th century.

Producer

Just like some people prefer different brands of clothing or electronics, many kosher wine drinkers are partial to certain producers. These preferences can come from a variety of places, including price, taste, and even the way certain bottles are packaged. For example, one person might enjoy Herzog wine because of its rich legacy dating back to the 1940s, while another drinker may choose Bartenura Moscato wine, or perhaps the richer Bartenura Freisa D'Asti.

Varietal

Much of the time, a kosher wine's unique flavors and tannins can be traced back to its varietal, or the specific type of grape it is made from. For example, moscato wines - made from muscat grapes - are known for their sweet, floral flavors and aromas. However, zinfandel grapes lend themselves to robust flavors of red wine, in addition to the semi-sweet taste of White Zinfandel, a rose (blush) wine.