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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman talk about an oft-overlooked aspect of every wine bottle: the enclosure.

First, they introduce a new segment as Rabbi Bernath reads a wine label and Kenny is left to guess which bottle it is.

They then introduce the main topic, first discussing some of the history of cork and its geographical implications.

They discuss each of the enclosures used for wine, including natural cork, synthetic cork, agglomerated cork such as Diam, Vinolok, crowns, and screw caps. They discuss the pros and cons of each enclosure and some of the myths attached.

They tackle the issue of TCA, which causes the wine fault of cork taint, and comes from a contaminant inside the cork which can affect over 3% of all wines enclosed by cork.

Lastly, they talk about an interesting wine they enjoyed over the last week. Kenny discusses the Binah, Blanc de Blancs, 2021, and Yisroel talks about the Jezreel, Icon, 2018.

The hosts mention that they love feedback and questions and leave open the possibility of mentioning people’s names on air should they choose.

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In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman invite their first guests, and chat with rockstar winemaker brothers Gabriel and Shimon Weiss of Shirah Wine, of course all while enjoying a glass of Shirah wine.

They discuss the origins of Shirah Wine and their journey in winemaking. The conversation covers topics such as the production, growth of the winery, the decision-making process for blends, the market for white wines, the importance of labels and packaging, and the ageability of their wines.

Gabriel and Shimon discuss the readiness of wines to drink and the aging process. They explain that every wine is ready to drink, but the aging process can enhance or change the flavors. They also discuss the challenges of winemaking, including financial and logistical aspects, particularly for kosher wine. They mention their influences in winemaking and their plans for the future, including the possibility of producing lower-cost wines.

Takeaways
---Shirah Wine's first vintage was in 2009 and has grown from producing 300 cases to 3000 cases per vintage.
---The winery focuses on Rhône varietals but also explores new and interesting grape varieties.
---The decision-making process for blends is flexible and depends on the vineyards and the desired outcome.
---Shirah Wine aims to offer a diverse portfolio of wines to excite customers and maintain brand excitement.
---The labels and packaging of Shirah Wine are designed by Gabe's sister and feature creative and humorous elements.
---Shirah Wine believes in the ageability of their wines and recommends cellaring certain bottles for future enjoyment. Every wine is ready to drink, but the aging process can enhance or change the flavors.
---The challenges of winemaking include financial and logistical aspects.
---Gabriel and Shimon have been influenced by winemakers such as Jonathan Hajdu, Jeff Morgan, Joe Hurliman, and Craig Winchell.
---They plan to continue producing high-quality wines and may explore the possibility of producing lower-cost wines in the future.
---They encourage listeners to support small wineries and express their gratitude for the support they have received.

Find out more about Shirah Wines and become part of their wine club at https://www.shirahwine.com/

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In the first post-Passover chat, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Dr. Kenny Friedman discuss their experiences during the Passover holiday and their mutual enjoyment of the Dalton Pet Nat wine. They explore the interesting process of Pét-Nat, or Pétillant Naturel, a sparkling wine made through a single fermentation process right in the bottle. They discuss the history and origins of Pét-Nat and its refreshing and fun characteristics. They also touch on the unique quality of Israeli Pét-Nat and the potential for Israeli winemakers to excel in this style. They answer a fan question on the bracha over cognac and brandy and the conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of kavana (intention) in winemaking and the enjoyment of receiving feedback from listeners.

Takeaways
---Pét-Nat is a sparkling wine made through a single fermentation process in the bottle.
---Israeli winemakers have the potential to excel in producing Pét-Nats due to the country's climate and the preferences of the young and energetic population.
---Dalton Pét-Nat is a unique and enjoyable wine that stands out during the Passover holiday.
---Kavana, or intention, plays a significant role in winemaking and can be tasted in the final product.

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