As Purim draws near (how’s that even possible already?!)—Mishenichnas Adar marbin b’simcha!—I find myself wondering about the perfect wines to recommend for this most joyous (and wine-centric) Chag. The Megillah’s wine feasts, especially Queen Esther’s strategic seudot that turned the tide against Haman, make raising a glass (or many more) not just appropriate, but basically a mitzvah. Yet with the potential for over-indulgence, it’s wise to avoid risking our finest, attention-deserving wines.

My solution? Embrace ve’nahafoch hu by featuring quality kosher wines that may not all be everyday choices but are festive, delicious, and suited to the seudah—whether bubbly for simcha, rosé for lightness, or bold reds for hearty dishes. Including fun, uncomplicated and slighty sweet wines to make everyone happy. These selections bring variety and surprise while honoring the holiday’s spirit of reversal and simcha:

Tulip Black Tulip 2021:

Tulip Winery’s flagship Bordeaux-style blend is a powerhouse from high-elevation Galilee and Judean Hills vineyards. The nose on this full-bodied red bursts with black currants, cassis, black cherries, dark chocolate, Mediterranean herbs, and warm spices—concentrated yet velvety with balanced tannins. The winery’s mission of employing special-needs adults adds meaningful depth for a chag of reversals. Pairs beautifully with brisket or grilled meats.

Bartenura Sparkling Moscato Rosé:

Even a snob like myself enjoys on occasion this crowd-pleasing, lightly effervescent sparkler in a pretty rosé hue, offering sweet strawberries, melon, honeysuckle, and raspberry. Low-alcohol and refreshing, it’s ideal for toasting, desserts, fruits, or charcuterie —keeping the energy lively without overwhelming the palate. Perfect for a festive, approachable option during the seudah.

Razi’el Brut Rosé NV:

From the Ben-Zaken family (of Castel fame), this traditional-method sparkling rosé blends Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Dry (Brut Nature, zero dosage) with fine bubbles, vibrant acidity, and elegant notes of dried flowers, red fruits, citrus, and brioche with some hints of mushrooms. Medium-bodied, complex, and gastronomical—excellent for elevating Purim with sophistication.

Herzog Special Reserve Quartet 2022:

A bold red blend (featuring Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and often Petit Verdot) that opens with lush dark cherries, blueberries, spice, and vanilla. Full-bodied with developed tannins and a long finish hinting at dark chocolate—structured yet approachable. A great match for rich Purim dishes like roasted meats.

Champagne Barons de Rothschild Brut Rosé (Non-Vintage, France) :

For true elegance, this French Champagne blends mostly Chardonnay with Pinot Noir (some red-vinified). Pale salmon-pink with fine bubbles, it delivers subtle rose petals, wild strawberries, lemon peel, and red berries—fresh, precise, silky, and mineral-driven with a crisp finish. Ideal for toasting the miracle or pairing across the meal.

These bottles flip the script on the usual, adding quality and festivity to your table. Drink responsibly, rejoice fully, and may this Purim bring simcha and reversal of fortunes for all Klal Yisroel. Chag Purim Sameach!