Maia by Tulip Winery, Mare Red 2023
Galilee, Israel 🇮🇱
Overview
A socially impactful wine made in Kfar Tikva (“Village of Hope”), where adults with special needs are part of every step in the winery’s operations. A Mediterranean-inspired red blend of 70% Carignan, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre, this is both delicious and meaningful.
Aromas & Flavors
Juicy berries, smoky red fruit, black pepper, and violets rise from the glass. On the palate, soft waves of red fruit cascade gently with floral and earthy hints, supported by subtle oak and spice.
Mouthfeel
Light-to-medium body, silky tannins, and a very approachable balance. Smooth, joyful, and easy to sip.
Food Pairing
Mediterranean mezze, hummus, dolmas, grilled fish, or casual movie-night snacks.
Verdict
Inclusive winemaking with a social purpose — and the wine is genuinely delicious. Smooth, versatile, and uplifting in every sense. Maia by Tulip Mare Red 2023
A wine with purpose, heart, and undeniable Mediterranean charm.
This beautiful red blend; 70% Carignan, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, it comes from the hills of Kfar Tikva, Israel, a unique village where adults with special needs are fully involved in every stage of the winemaking process. It’s more than just a wine; it’s a celebration of inclusion, dignity, and community.
On the nose, it bursts with ripe red berries, hints of smokiness, a touch of spice (black pepper, clove), and gentle earthy and floral tones. The 8 months of French oak aging adds a soft whisper of vanilla and structure.
The palate? Pure joy. It’s silky, medium-bodied, fruit-forward, and beautifully balanced, a red that dances lightly but leaves a lasting impression. Think red currant, cherry compote, and a breeze of Mediterranean herbs.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body, super approachable, with soft tannins and a clean, lingering finish. Utterly charming.
Perfect pairings? Hummus, grilled veggies, dolmas, lean meats, even roasted fish. Or? Just you, a cozy couch, some popcorn or crackers, and your favorite movie. 🍿🍷
Versatile. Uplifting. And truly delicious.
Cheers to wine with meaning!
— a year ago
lovely 100% nebbiolo Israeli pet nat.
11.3% abv
nebbiolo is obviously a rarity in israel wine, but here it is, made in a different than usual way.
wild fermentation. no s02.
we love easy going pet nats at home.
after being opened the bubbles slowly climbed out of the bottle. pouring it it screamed 'I'm alive! so alive! feels good to be alive, ain't it?'
medium + acidity
medium - body.
light and not too complex. grapey with some pomegranate and raspberry hints. and a creamy feeling reminding me forest fruit pie.
paired lovely with a vibrant salad of cauliflower, apricot, hazelnut, spring onions, cilantro, nana(local mint), grana padano cheese and lemon 🍯olive oil sauce. and also great olive bread and seitan 'shawarma' and tahini.
i said i need more nebbiolo in my life, a few more like this is great but only as addition to some barolo, barbaresco and langhe nebbiolo. — 5 years ago
A beloved boutique winery in Israel that's socially responsible. Located in small a village that's home to residents with disabilities, Tulip employs team members from Kfar Tikva who help with the entire wine process. The Syrah Reserve is bright, black fruit on the nose and palate, deep, long finish. Pairs well with lamb and meat plates. — 12 years ago
Freddy R. Troya
Maia by Tulip Winery, Mare White 2021
Galilee, Israel 🇮🇱
Overview
Another inspiring project from Kfar Tikva (“Village of Hope”), this refreshing white blend of French Colombard and Marsanne is crafted with the same inclusive philosophy where adults with special needs participate in every stage of production. It highlights Israel’s Mediterranean style in a bright and approachable form.
Aromas & Flavors
The nose bursts with citrus, grapefruit, and lychee, balanced by nuances of peach and fresh herbs. On the palate, flavors of mandarin, lychee, and ripe stone fruit create a crisp and refreshing character with a short, clean finish.
Mouthfeel
Light-bodied, casual, and very approachable. Crisp acidity frames the fruit while keeping the wine breezy and flexible. Alcohol sits at 12% ABV, adding to its easy-drinking style.
Food Pairing
Perfect for mezze spreads, grilled vegetables, fresh pasta with tomato and herbs, or simply as a chilled aperitif on a warm evening.
Verdict
A socially impactful wine with a casual charm. Hugely versatile, refreshing, and uplifting — both in taste and purpose. — a year ago