Sipping Your Way Through December—Day 9

Golan Heights Gilgal Brut

Here’s a bubbly to stock up on for the upcoming Hanukkah holiday, or really, anytime.

photo: Lisa Denning

Gilgal Brut, produced by Golan Heights Winery, comes from the cool, high-altitude vineyards of Israel’s Golan Heights, a region that surprises many people with how well-suited it is for sparkling wine. Cool nights, volcanic soils, and plenty of sunshine give the grapes freshness and flavor concentration, which is exactly what you want when you're making traditional-method bubbles.

The blend is 50/50 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, and the wine rests on its lees for at least a year before release. In the glass, green apple and pear lead the way with bright lemon invigorating every sip. There’s a soft floral note, plus a whisper of wild strawberry that hints at the Pinot Noir underneath. The bubbles are fine, the texture is lively, and the tartness keeps it refreshing. It’s one of those sparkling wines you pour for a toast, and then everyone wants a refill.

This bright, joyful sparkler pairs perfectly with anything salty or fried: latkes, of course, but also fried chicken, sushi, or delicate tempura. It’s equally happy alongside soft cheeses, smoked salmon boards, or simple roast chicken.

Available nationwide at Kosherwine.com and Totalwine.com for a Suggested Retail Price of $30