By The Scribe January 3, 2018

In New York City, we’re bracing for a winter storm. But no matter where you are, you can hunker down with wine blogger Gabriel Geller’s top recommendations to cozy up to this winter: Château Larcis Jaumat, a Bordeaux to Drink Now or Save and Tabor, from Shifon Vineyard, a New and Original Wine from Israel.

The wine blogger, critic, and Royal Wine Corporation executive recently alerted his readers to two wines that are especially wonderful for winter:

Château Larcis Jaumat, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, 2015 (SRP $29.99) (not Mevushal)

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2015 is an outstanding vintage for Bordeaux, says Geller, “but for most of us mere mortals, these wines will be either just dreams or reserved for very special occasions.” The good news is, even the entry and mid-level wines are good to excellent.

Château Larcis Jaumat is moderately priced because it’s not from a famous, classified estate, even though it’s made with the same grapes by the same process. And while most great Bordeaux typically need 5-10 years in the cellar to develop and mellow, Larcis Jaumat is great to drink now and will keep adding layers of flavors and aromas over the coming decade.

This elegant, medium-bodied wine carries notes of ripe black currants and raspberries with hints of smoke and forest floor. It features layers of flavors, velvety tannins, and well-balanced acidity as well as a long, earthy finish. Grab it now, urges Geller!

Tabor, Tannat, Shifon Vineyard, 2013 (SRP $39.99) (not Mevushal)

Geller calls this very unique Israeli wine a must-try. This first release from Tabor comes from the Shifon vineyard, 950 meters above sea level in the Golan Heights. “It is one of only two kosher Tannat that I know of,” he says. Very different than most Israeli red wines, Tabor is full-bodied yet neither too fruity nor too oaky. The aroma and flavor showcase notes of thyme, peppermint, and eucalyptus with juicy red fruits (strawberries, currants, plums). Fans of high acidity and bold tannins will savor this refreshing, masterfully crafted novelty. Geller is watching this wine with interest to see how it will change with time.

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