Transition from Avdus Mitzrayim to Avdus Hashem with Excellent Wines

As I type this, nearly 2 feet of snow still cover the ground in New Jersey, and it is hard to believe that Pesach is just around the corner. However, Yom Tov is fast approaching, most of us deep into preparation mode — cleaning the house, planning menus, cooking up a storm, shopping for ingredients and, of course, thinking about the wines that will accompany the many festive meals and the four cups of each of the Sedarim. Great news! The kosher wine world has never been more exciting, and is constantly evolving with an incredible selection to choose from. New releases from classic regions and lesser-known gems offer something for every palate, whether you prefer crisp whites, elegant reds, or celebratory bubblies. With that in mind, here are a few wines worth putting on your Pesach table this year.

Champagne Cheurlin Thomas Cuvée Spéciale Brut NV

To open the Seder — or simply to set a festive tone at any of the Yom Tov meals— here is an excellent choice. Cheurlin is a Champagne house that has been around since 1788! About 11 years ago, NBA-All Star legend Isiah Thomas (from the Michael Jordan generation) fell in love with the wines produced by Cheurlin and became a partner. Fast forward to 2023, Cheurlin and Thomas decided to make 2 kosher Champagne, and what a treat they are.  This Champagne is refined yet expressive, with fine bubbles, notes of green apple, citrus peel and toasted brioche. Thanks to the bracing acidity, there’s a beautiful tension between freshness and depth, making it both celebratory and food‑friendly.

Sonoma Loeb Dignitary Chardonnay 2024

For the white wines lovers, but also for those still in need of conversion, the Sonoma Loeb Dignitary Chardonnay deserves special attention. This is a classic California Chardonnay done with restraint: bright aromas of pear, lemon zest and subtle vanilla, balanced by refreshing acidity and gentle oak influence. It pairs effortlessly with fish, chicken and lighter holiday dishes.

Cantina Giuliano Vermentino 2024

Another refreshing white option comes from Italy. Aromatic and lively, this Mediterranean white offers flavors of citrus, white peach and fresh herbs, with a distinct mineral edge. Its crisp profile makes it ideal for appetizers, salads and vegetable-based dishes, especially during the earlier meals of Yom Tov.

Château de Parsac Montagne Saint-Emilion 2023

On the red side, this wine offers a very approachable Bordeaux experience. Medium-bodied and smooth, it shows ripe red fruit, hints of earth and soft tannins. Unlike many Bordeaux wines that demand long aging, this one is ready to drink now and works beautifully with brisket, roasted poultry and most classic Pesach dishes. And while approachable now, a recent experience of mine with the 2011 vintage proved that it can also evolve quite nicely over the long haul, a true rarity at this price point.

Ben Porat Pura 2023

Finally, for a Bordeaux-style blend with a distinctly Israeli accent, this wine is an intriguing choice. Expressive and vibrant, with dark berry flavors, subtle spice and a touch of Mediterranean warmth. Well-balanced and versatile, it shines alongside grilled meats and hearty stews.

These wines not only elevate the holiday meals but also invite conversation and discovery around the table in a relaxed fashion. Let’s be thankful for our freedom to enhance our Avodas Hashem, down to our wines. L’chaim, Chag Pesach Kosher V’sameach!

About the author

Gabriel Geller

47 articles

Gabriel Geller has joined Royal Wine Corp. after over 15 years of experience in the wine industry. He fell in love with the wonderful world of wine when he moved to Israel from Switzerland and discovered the burgeoning Israeli wine industry. Gabriel refined and educated himself and his palate traveling the globe, visiting wineries and attending professional tastings. Since 2008, Gabriel has been a wine writer and critic for a variety of media outlets as well as a consultant to wineries, hotels, importers, distributors and wine shops in Israel, France, Switzerland, Australia, America, England, Italy and Belgium. Before coming to America, Gabriel owned and managed a specialty wine shop in Jerusalem and in 2014 started the very popular “Kosher Wine: Sharing and Experiences”, a facebook group that features his advice and reviews of thousands of kosher wines which has quickly become the largest online forums focusing on the world of kosher wine.

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