The Passover holiday, also known as Pesach, embodies the Jewish celebration of liberation. This springtime festivity commences on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, enriching the occasion with storytelling, symbolic foods, and the indispensable wine.
The Passover holiday, also known as Pesach, embodies the Jewish celebration of liberation. This springtime festivity commences on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, enriching the occasion with storytelling, symbolic foods, and the indispensable wine. Central to this observance is the "seder," a ritual dinner where the story of the Exodus is recounted. "Seder," meaning "order" in Hebrew, underscores the meaningful symbolism behind the food, drinks, and practices, reflecting the deep roots of the Passover narrative.
A highlight of the ceremony involves drinking four glasses of wine, which symbolize freedom and joy, with a fifth glass reserved for the prophet Elijah. ABC wine expert, Dan Eddy, has handpicked a list of five Kosher wines to pair with each stage of the dinner. Read along for his top recommendations.
The first glass is poured almost immediately and drank after saying Kiddush, a blessing that commemorates the significance of the holiday. We recommend starting off with a lighter wine as you have a long evening ahead of you full of food and drinks, like Baron Herzog Sauvignon Blanc. This semi dry sauv blanc is made in California, with notes of pear, apple and lychee.
Another great option is Herzog Lineage Chardonnay. This California chard has a full body with notes of tropical fruit, citrus and a hint of vanilla to round out the palate.
The second glass is enjoyed after the story of Passover is told. It is dedicated not only to the struggles of the Jewish people, but the hopes that everyone can lead a life without fear. This glass is enjoyed in the middle of the seder and not long (depending on who is leading the seder) before dinner is served. Baron Herzog Zinfandel is a great option to accompany the main course. It is a full-bodied red wine from California that features strong aromas of ripe blackberries and raspberries and will pair nicely with brisket.
Glass three comes after Passover dinner has wrapped up. You may be inching toward a food coma at this point, but there is still more praise to be sung and wine to be poured. Your third glass of wine accompanies a blessing for the meal just enjoyed. Dan recommends Bartenura Moscato D’Asti. This Italian sparkling white wine is crisp and refreshing with a semi-sweet body. You’ll find flavors of pear, tangerine and nectar with a melon finish.
Your fourth and final glass is sipped at the end of our seder when concluding with the phrase “Next year in Israel,” signifying a new hope for a better coming year. A red blend is just the pick. Dan’s Kosher recommendation is Herzog Lineage Choreograph Red Blend. This blend is created from 12 grape varietals, co-fermented to create a wine boasting with black raspberry, espresso and nutmeg flavors.
Before the seder reaches a conclusion, it is time to pour an extra cup of wine for the prophet Elijah. Barkan Classic Cabernet Sauvignon is Dan’s pick here. This cab is a dry red wine made in Israel, picked from the vineyards of the Barkan Winery in the Galilee. It has a rich full body with spicy berry and oak aromas. Leave the final glass for Elijah and enjoy the remaining wine for later.
