Freddy R. Troya

9.0

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!
— 5 months ago

Jerry Raphael

9.1

Sweet fruits and so enjoyable. Thanks Lar — 4 years ago

with Barbara

Jerry Raphael

9.0

Excellent wine and a bit rustic. Always drank better in Larry’s cellar. Thanks Lar. — 5 years ago

with Barbara

Freddy R. Troya

8.9

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. — 5 months ago

Joe Estrada

9.5

Big & bold just like the Farmer, Big Lar — 4 years ago

Dmitry Muzychak

9.2

С этого вина я решил начать обязательную программу винной карты Maia rresort Anantara. Этот совиньон блан 2018 года из провинции Сталенбош ЮАР приятно удивил меня. Солнца ему явно хватило. Однозначно - уровень лучших совиньонов Новой Зеландии. Весьма понравилось. Выпито в ресторане отеля за ужином под прекрасную пару креветок темпера и тартара из тунца и окуня. — 5 years ago

Ludovic Anacleto

9.6

SPEC TA CU LAR! Here you feel the absolute majesty of a wine who can be promoted to at least 2nd growth. Cedar, camphor, eucalyptus, butterscotch/4 spices, yellow curry. I’ve always loved ‘00 in Pauillac has I think it’s the last great of the classic style. Definitely this bottling is a keeper. — a year ago

Armando Raúl Guerra

9.1

Good Rioja — 2 years ago

Jerry Raphael

9.2

Excellent wine, so drinkable and just loaded with pineapple, pear and peach notes throughout. I like my whites with a little more acidy but the drinkability outweighed any minor issues. Thanks, Lar — 4 years ago

with Barbara

Kurtis Epp

9.1

Really nicely balanced Rioja. Nice cherry fruit with balanced oak and moderate acidity. — 5 years ago