Resilient, passionate, and deeply humanistic, Feldstein Winery’s voice is a testament to the enduring spirit of the vine. Feldstein followers are discerning wine connoisseurs who appreciate not just the taste of the wines, but the story behind them. His wine style is eloquent yet straightforward, with a touch of poetic flair.
Starting
Avi Felstein, born in Israel, grew up in Tel Aviv, and pursued higher education in literature and philosophy at Tel Aviv University. His career evolved from being a tour guide and bartender to becoming a professional poet and writer and then morphed to becoming a celebrated winemaker, particularly known for innovations in the Israeli wine industry, such as Segal’s Unfiltered wines and his independent label, Feldstein Winery.
He started his management career at Segal, serving as Executive Vice President of Business Development when the winery was independent. His focus included imports and foreign production and established Israel’s first school of mixology and bartending, training many Israeli bartenders in the 1990s.
During this decade Feldstein transitioned to viticulture, becoming one of the pioneers of vinifera cultivation and winemaking in the Galilee, near Dalton and Kibbutz Yiron (partners with the Galil Mountain winery). When Tempo/Barkan acquired Segal, Feldstein shifted from management to become Segal’s self-taught head winemaker. He is credited with creating Segal’s Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon, one of Israel’s most iconic wines. He also launched Segal Single Vineyard Rechaim Argaman (2006), the first premium Israeli wine made from the Argaman varietal. Feldstein spent a decade with Barkan-Segal leaving in 2010 to start Feldstein Winery (2014), an enterprise that features the crafting of elegant drinkable wines that age well.
With an ongoing philosophy about winemaking, Feldstein’s strengths lie in careful vineyard management, minimal intervention, gentle extraction techniques and a measured oak regimen. He uses European varieties, hybrids, and indigenous grapes, creating unconventional, innovative wines.
In 2024, Avi returned to the Barkan Segal winery as Technical Director working with Itay Lahat and collaborating with head winemaker Olivier Fratty to enhance quality standards at Israel’s largest commercial winery.
InMyPersonalOpinion.Life
Feldstein. Cabernet Sauvignon
The Allure of Israeli Wine
Israel has been producing wine for thousands of years. The warm climate and diverse soils play a vital role in developing rich flavors, allowing various grape varieties to thrive. Feldstein Winery, with its emphasis on quality and tradition, combines modern techniques with age-old practices. Its commitment to excellence shines through in their Cabernet Sauvignon, notable for its flavor and craftsmanship.
Appearance: Color, Clarity, and Viscosity
Upon pouring, the Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby color, hinting at its richness. The wine shows good clarity with enticing aromas of dark fruit notes, along with hints of cedar and spice. On the palate it is smooth and well-rounded with balanced acidity. Tannins are present but not overpowering, creating a pleasant structure that invites the next sip.
The first flavors to hit your palate are dark and luscious with blackcurrants and plums dominating and delivering a fruity punch. A subtle hint of cedar adds depth to the overall experience. Beyond the fruit there are hints of tobacco, graphite, and various spices that round out the flavor profile. The aging process in oak barrels introduces delightful influences and hints of vanilla and mocha, along with just a whisper of toast.
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