Yatir Winery, Judean Hills (Israel) 2017

 A lovely blend of 52 percent Viognier and 33 percent Chenin Blanc that combines the rich, round apricot, pineapple, honeysuckle flavors and weight of Viognier with Chenin’s pear, citrus fruit with stony mineral notes, and crisp acidity.  It was delicious with roasted acorn squash stuffed with a mixture of Italian sausage, chopped carrots and onions.  It would also complement a roast chicken.  The Yatir area has a 2500 year history of grape growing and wine making.  It is located at the southern tip of the Judean Hills.  The winery, established in 2000, is a joint project between local vine-growers and the Carmel Winery.  Winemaker Eran Goldwasser majored in viticulture and viniculture at the University of Adelaide in South Australia and worked at a winery in Western Australia.  He went to work at Carmel Winery when he returned to Israel.