Kosher Wine Podcast

Episode 41: Season 2 Episode 13: Common Wine Myths

In today's fun podcast, Dr. Kenneth Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath discuss common wine myths. They discuss misconceptions about wine in general, and kosher wine specifically. Some topics include the use of screw caps on wine, aging all wines, the idea that cost equates to quality, adding ice to a glass of wine, the belief that mevushal wine is inferior, and many others. We really enjoyed this topic and hope you send us your own myths for us to discuss on a future podcast. Send your myths, questions, or comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

• Transcript

Episode 40: Season 2, Episode 12: Eli Gauthier of Cantina Giuliano, Tuscany, Italy

What happens when French wine culture, the hills of Tuscany, Jewish tradition, and a little bit of chutzpah all meet in one bottle? Rabbi Yisroel Bernath sits down with Eli Gauthier, winemaker and the driving force behind Cantina Giuliano, the unique kosher winery, restaurant, and hospitality experience in the heart of Tuscany. Eli shares the remarkable journey that led him into winemaking and the dream of creating something deeply Italian, authentically Jewish, and unmistakably his own. Cantina Giuliano grew from a small family project into a destination where kosher is not simply a certification, it is part of the soul of the experience. The conversation moves far beyond wine. Rabbi Bernath and Eli talk about passion, faith, Jewish identity, food, hospitality, building something from nothing, and what it means to bring holiness into the physical pleasures of life. Because Judaism has never really asked us to escape the world. Sometimes it asks us to make a blessing, raise a glass, and elevate it. There is also a poignant backdrop to this episode. This conversation was recorded at Noam Restaurant in Montreal, shortly before the restaurant was firebombed. Listening to it now gives the conversation an added meaning. Sitting in a Jewish restaurant, talking openly and joyfully about wine, food, faith, tradition, and creating Jewish life. Perhaps that itself is the answer to darkness. We build. We gather. We make Kiddush. We raise a glass. And we keep choosing life. L’chaim. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

• Transcript

Episode 39: Season 2, Episode 11: Preparing for Pesach with Gabriel Geller

In this episode of the Kosher Wine Podcast, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath sit down for a wide-ranging discussion with Gabriel Geller, WSETIII, Director of PR and Manager of Wine Education for Royal Wine. Geller now holds the incredible distinction of being the first two-time guest on Kosher Wine Podcast, having joined us a year ago for our pre-Pesach edition. Gabriel, Kenny, and the Rabbi discuss our plans for Pesach wines and specifically for the Sedarim, as well as new wines on the market this year. Pour yourself a glass and get ready for a journey through the world of kosher wine today! Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 38: Season 2, Episode 10: Winemaker Yaacov Oryah & Chef Yossel Backman

After hosting an unforgettable evening in Montreal, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath sits down with legendary winemaker Yaacov Oryah and world-class private chef Yossel Backman for a behind-the-scenes conversation. What started as a perfectly curated night of wine and food quickly turned into something deeper, a dialogue about creativity, risk, and what happens when wine and cuisine are allowed to truly speak to each other. From bold orange wines to precision-driven pairings, this episode captures the magic of a one-of-a-kind experience. Together, they unpack the evening: the philosophy behind Yaacov’s boundary-pushing wines, the art of pairing food that elevates rather than competes, and the courage it takes to create something not everyone immediately understands. This isn’t just about wine. It’s about vision, collaboration, and what happens when you stop playing it safe and start creating something real. Pour a glass. You’ll want to listen to this one slowly. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 37: Season 2, Episode 9: V'nehapachu! Our Purim Torah & Wine Episode!

With Purim approaching next week, Kenny and Rabbi Bernath delve into the idea of drinking wine on Purim. Halakhic Perspectives Purim Night vs. Purim Day Types of Wine we Drink on Purim Purim vs. Pesach Wines We rely on Rabbi Bernath's rabbinic knowledge and discuss some beautiful ideas of what makes Purim special and how we consider "ad delo yada" and drinking wine until one cannot distinguish between "Arur Haman" (cursed is Haman) and "Baruch Mordechai" (blessed is Mordechai). But first we discuss our mutual visits and dinners with Ya'acov Oryah of Pinto Winery and Ya'acov Oryah wines. We are always thrilled to hear from our listeners. Our listener poll this week: Do you drink more at the: Pesach Seder? Purim Seudah? A Freilichin Purim! Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 36: Season 2, Episode 8: "A Recap of KFWE 2026," The Kosher Wine Podcast Superbowl Halftime Show

In The Kosher Wine Podcast Superbowl Halftime Show, Season 2 Episode 8, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Bernath discuss their observations of the recent KFWE held on February 3, 2026 in the Meadowlands, NJ. They each have critiques on what could be improved and chat on the following topics: Length of the event New Wines Trade vs. Public Location of Show Crowd Food Personalities Dr. Kenny and Rabbi Bernath cover all this ground in just 15 minutes so you can have a tznius halftime and get back to the game! Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 35: Season 2, Episode 7: Four Gates Day and the Wines Worth Chasing

In Season 2 Episode 7, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Bernath discuss the annual wine holiday "Four Gates Day," which just occurred. They discussed what makes Four Gates special and what qualifies any wine as a cult wine. Dr. Kenny and Rabbi Bernath chat about a host of other new wines on the market and some that they have recently tried. They talk about upcoming wine events they are hosting in various cities and those they will attend as guests, such as KFWE and KWD Wine Night in early February. In this wide-ranging episode, Kenny and Rabbi Bernath get back to what they do best: shooting the breeze between two great friends while discussing kosher wine. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 34: Season 2, Episode 6: Rounding Up All the Great Wines We Enjoyed Through the Yom Tov Season

In Season 2 Episode 6, Kenny and Rabbi Bernath review many of the wines they had over the last couple months, covering many of the new wines and regions available in the kosher marketplace. They discuss such wines as Chablis Grand Cru, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a Premier Crus Beaune, and many others. Rabbi Bernath talks about his special house guest, Dr. Moises Cohen of Elvi Winery. Kenny immediately gets jealous. In this wide-ranging episode, Kenny and Rabbi Bernath get back to what they do best: shooting the breeze between two great friends and chatting kosher wine. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 33: Season 2, Episode 5: Levi Chitrik and Rabbi Chaim Hillel of Narrow Bridge Winery

In a laid-back and wide-ranging interview, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath shmooze with Chaim Hillel, Rabbi at Chabad of SLO (serving Cal Poly), and hands-on cellarmaster and Levi Chitrik, NY native, who now lives in Atlanta. Chitrik started making wine as a teen, and went pro at Brooklyn Winery in 2010. In 2012, Chitrik partnered with Chaim (his cousin’s husband) and moved production to California. For years they made small-batch wines, and sold by word of mouth only. Since 2021, they have been fully licensed, producing in San Luis Obispo. Narrow Bridge maintains a focus on Pinot Noir—mainly Santa Maria Valley clones, and while they also make Cab and Merlot, Pinot remains the passion. Wine, for Narrow Bridge, is both currency and connection. "Though growth means we can’t know every customer, we value the relationships and the way wine opens doors—especially for Chaim in his rabbinic work, it opens doors to yidden who wouldn’t otherwise engage with a Rabbi." --- To learn more or purchase wines at narrowbridgewinery.com You can pick up Narrow Bridge wines at some of your favorite shops across the country, including: Vineyard – Lakewood, NJ Cork & Barrel – Passaic, NJ Filler Up – Englewood, NJ La Vino – Long Island, NY The Cask – Los Angeles, CA Barrel Wine & Cheese – South Florida Wine on 59 – Monsey, NY Liquor & Wine Warehouse – Five Towns, NY Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 32: Season 2, Episode 4: We're Back!

In the (too) long awaited Episode 4, Kenny and Rabbi Bernath cover a lot of ground and discuss many of the hot topics of the day in the kosher wine world. Among them: The impossibility of getting kosher wines in Quebec The effect of tariffs on international wine and the kosher market The price increase on the Royal portfolio The difficulty in finding quality kosher wines under $35 or $40 and the detrimental effect on the casual wine drinker Wine bottle sizing - should more smaller bottles be available? The lack of canned or boxed kosher wines The fallout of tariffs on French wine imports and the possible silver lining Kenny and Rabbi Bernath discuss the wine they had over Shabbos Chazon (limited menu, of course: Kenny: Landsman, Syrah, Sta. Rita Hills, 2023 Rabbi Bernath: Landman, Syrah, 2014 Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 31: Season 2, Episode 3: Kosher Wine on the Road | Dan Levin, Kosher Winemaker One Hope Winery, Marciano Estate, Mayacamas, The Reserve, Napa Valley CA. (California Series, Episode 2)

What do Lucasfilm, Pixar, and kosher Cabernet have in common? One man: Dan Levin. In this special edition of the Kosher Wine Podcast, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath sits down with Dan Levin, affectionately known in the Valley as “Kosher Dan”—for an unforgettable conversation that flows like a fine barrel sample. Recorded under the starlit skies of OneHope Winery, this episode uncorks Dan’s incredible journey from the world of audio engineering to becoming one of Napa’s most trusted kosher winemakers. From hand-destemming berries one-by-one at Mayacamas to salvaging vintages with divine timing at Marciano Estate, Dan shares behind-the-scenes stories filled with heart, humor, and hashgacha pratis. Rabbi Bernath and Dan explore what makes kosher winemaking not just rigorous but deeply meaningful, from spiritual discipline to the surprising truth that sometimes the kosher wine tastes better. Whether you’re a wine lover, a spiritual seeker, or just someone who appreciates a great story, this episode is as rich and rewarding as a well-aged Cabernet. See Rabbi Bernath’s Full Article on his experience with Dan Levin HERE https://medium.com/@loverabbi/a-taste-of-kosher-napa-77bc19e87b51?sk=ddb4e271a3566be0cf50957236f9ff94 Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 30: Season 2, Episode 2: Back to Basics

In Episode 2 of Season 2, Dr. Kenny Friedman & Rabbi Yisroel Bernath get back to basics, reviewing wines they have been drinking recently and discussing what makes them interesting. Kenny's Wines: Bodegas Vizar, Roble, 2023 Chateau Les Graves de Lavaud, 2020 Dalton, Galilee, Sauvignon Blanc, Fumé, 2024 Clos 15, Brut Nature, Cava, NV Dalton, Galilee, Alma, Deep Red, 2020 R' Yisroel's Wines: J. de Villebois, Pouilly-Fumé, “Les Silex Blancs,” 2023 El Orador, Rioja Alta, 2023 Dalton, Pinot Gris, 2023 Hajdu, Mendocino County, Pinot Blanc, 2024 Recanati, Reserve, Marselan, 2019 Kenny and R' Yisroel discuss genetic mutations creating white variants of red grapes, screw top wines, the impression labels make on customers, and the greater topic of "ambience" as it applies to restaurants and food, among many other topics. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 29: Season 2, Episode 1: Live Recording, Chol Hamoed Pesach, Special Guests and Great Discussion.

In this first episode of the second season of The Kosher Wine Podcast, join Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath as they sit together for the first time live on the podcast. They welcome their wives, special guests, family and friends, drink wonderful wines, and celebrate the holiday of Pesach (Passover) with happiness and special friendship. Kenny and Rabbi Bernath enjoy the: Nana Estate, Mitzpe Ramon, Tethys, 2021 Shirah, Coalition, 2019 Four Gates, Santa Clara Valley, Syrah, 2016 Listen in and have a seat at the table. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 28: Our Wine Picks - Passover 2025

In the highly anticipated 2025/5785 Second Annual Pesach episode, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath make their Seder Wine Picks. They choose exclusively red, non-mevushal, and easy to drink wines for the Four Cups. They emphasize the importance of choosing Israeli wines for the Seder and supporting the Israeli wine industry. In this conversation, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Kenny Friedman discuss their top wine picks for Passover. The conversation highlights the diversity and quality of Israeli wines and the importance of supporting Israeli winemakers, more so now than ever. They also discuss the significance of remembering and focusing on the remaining Israeli hostages during the Seder, may they be brought home safely, speedily, and in good health now, as well as all of our soldiers, may Hashem watch over them. Next Year in Jerusalem! Kenny's Picks: Seder 1 (Israeli Only): Golan Heights Winery, Yarden, Rose, Brut, 2017 Vitkin, Israeli Journey, Red, 2023 Dalton, Asufa, Grounded, Zuriman, 2023 Gva'ot, Gofna, Reserve, Bittuni, 2023 (Alternate option: Domaine du Castel, La Vie, Rouge, 2023) Shulchan Orech: Recanati, Reserve, Wild Carignan, 2014 Seder 2 (International): Hagafen, Brut Rose, 2015 Kleinlerer, Dancin' Sophie, Cinsault, 2024 Binah, Pinot Noir, 2022 Shirah, Riverbench, Pinot Meunier, 2021 Shulchan Orech: Carmel, Single Vineyard, Sha'al, Merlot, 2010 Yisroel’s Picks: Seder 1 and 2 (Both Israel) Bravdo Neta Red, 2023 Tulip Merlot, 2021 Recanati Young Vines Carignan ,2019 Yarden Cabernet, 2009 Odem Forest Red Blend, 2023 Dalton Scarlett, 2020 Yaacov Oryah Up We Go, 2020 Netofa DOR Syrah, 2017 Bat Shlomo Regavim, 2021 Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 27: Gabriel Geller, Director of PR and Manager of Wine Education for Royal Wine, Inc.

In Episode 27 of the Kosher Wine Podcast, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath sit down for a wide-ranging discussion with Gabriel Geller, WSETIII, Director of PR and Manager of Wine Education for Royal Wine, Inc. Gabriel recounts how he got into the wine industry and his current position at Royal. Kenny & Yisroel discuss a wide variety of topics, including current wine trends in the kosher industry, wine pricing and its effect on buying, kosher wine sales in the non-kosher world, the burgeoning sales of white and sparkling wine, among many other topics. With the upcoming major wine buying season of Passover/Pesach, Kenny, Yisroel and Gabriel talk about what wines they will be purchasing, and how they approach wine for the Seder. Pour yourself a glass and get ready for a journey through the world of kosher wine today! Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 26: Kosher Wine on the Road | Benyamin Cantz, Four Gates Winery (California Series, Episode 1)

The Soul of Four Gates: A Deep Dive with Benyomin Cantz In this unforgettable episode of the Kosher Wine Podcast, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath journeyed to the breathtaking Santa Cruz Mountains to meet the legendary winemaker Benyomin Cantz of Four Gates Winery. We walk the vineyards, explore his hands-on winemaking process, and step into the sacred stillness of his barrel room, where patience and devotion transform grapes into some of the rarest and most sought-after kosher wines in the world. Benyo shares the philosophy behind his dry-farmed vines, why he refuses to make mevushal wine, and how every bottle is a testament to craftsmanship and spiritual elevation. This conversation is more than just about wine—it’s about life, growth, and the beauty of things that take time. Episode Highlights: A Walk Through the Vineyards – Benyo’s hands-on approach to tending his vines and the magic of dry farming. Inside the Barrel Room – A rare tasting of Four Gates wines, including a 35-year-old mystery vintage. The Philosophy of Kosher Wine – How wine connects us to spirituality and why Four Gates wines are made with intentionality. The Art of Patience – Why great wine—and life itself—is all about timing and growth. Exclusive Insights – Benyo explains why he produces such limited quantities, why terroir matters, and how each bottle is a conversation waiting to happen. #KosherWIne #FourGates #Kosher #KosherWinemaking #SantaCruzMountains #FourGatesWinery Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 25: Rabbi Michoel Gershzon, Kosher Georgian Wines: An Ancient Tradition Meets a New Era

In this captivating episode of the Kosher Wine Podcast, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath sit down with Rabbi Michoel Gershzon for a deep dive into the world of Georgian wine. Rabbi Gershzon shares his firsthand expertise on Georgia’s rich winemaking heritage and his work with Bam Wine and Spirits. Together, they explore what makes Georgian wine so distinctive, the history behind its ancient winemaking traditions, and the exciting new wave of kosher Georgian wines arriving in America. Beyond the vineyard, Rabbi Michoel unveils the fascinating story of Georgia’s Jewish community and its deep-rooted connection to kosher wine. Pour yourself a glass and get ready for a journey through history, culture, and the bold flavors of kosher Georgian wines! Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 24: KFWE NY 2025: New Wines, Indigenous Grapes & California Adventures

In Episode #24, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath discuss their visit to the Kosher Food & Wine Experience NY, Royal Wine's major trade show and annual tasting events, held at the Park Hotel Meadowlands on February 10, 2025. They discussed their thoughts on the big event, talking about timing of the show, the new wines they tasted, and all of the people they met. Kenny & Rabbi Bernath read listener mail and chat about the topic of indigenous grapes. Kenny and Rabbi Yisroel talk about wines they have had over the last week, including: Elvi, Cava, NVKoenig, Cremant D'Alsace, NVShirah, Bro.Deux (Bro.Max), Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022Rabbi Bernath discusses his recent trip to California, visiting Four Gates Winery, Marciano Estates, and OneHope Winery. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 23: Kenny's Visit to Israel, Upcoming Kosher Wine Events and Reviewing Some Great Wines.

In Episode #23, Dr. Kenny Friedman and Rabbi Yisroel Bernath chat about Kenny's recent visit to Israel, and his visits to wineries in the north of Israel, among them: Recanati Winery Dalton Winery Netofa Winery Jezreel Winery They discuss upcoming kosher wine events around the globe. Rabbi Bernath reviews the four wines he had over the past week: Clos 15 Cava Kamisa, Omega, 2020 Oryah, Playground, Chardonnay, 2021 Goblet, Pinot Noir, 2017 Kenny sipped on the Golan Heights Winery, Yarden, Late Harvest, Muscat, 1998 Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

Episode 22: Kosher Wine on the Road – Anna & Moises Cohen, Elvi Winery (Spain Series, Episode 2)

Few wine experiences linger in memory as vividly as a day spent at Elvi Wines and Clos Mesorah in Montsant and Priorat Spain. My wife Sara and I had the privilege of an extraordinary visit — a masterclass in hospitality and winemaking — hosted by Moises and Anna Cohen. The rain, relentless throughout the day, provided a dramatic backdrop to what turned out to be one of the most enriching vineyard experiences I’ve ever encountered. Nestled in the Montsant hills, Clos Mesorah is a gem of a winery. Moises Cohen, a scientist from Casablanca, Morocco. At the age of 17, he moved to Israel to study agricultural engineering at the Technion in Haifa and later ended up in Catalonia, Spain, working in agriculture and water management. “This new vineyard is the labratory I always wanted, it really brings together both of my passions,” Cohen mused. What struck me most about our nearly seven-hour visit was the passion and warmth of the Cohen family. Moises, whose expertise lies in viticulture and biodynamics, is as captivating as the vineyards he tends. But the true revelation of the day was Anna Cohen, originally from Toulouse, France, an artist and qualified sommelier. Soft-spoken yet fiercely knowledgeable, Anna’s winemaking is the soul of Elvi. Her mastery shines through in every glass, her meticulous approach translating into wines that are as complex as they are elegant. While she doesn’t speak English, her passion and artistry transcend language barriers. Moises & Anna’s curated tasting lineup was nothing short of extraordinary, offering a glimpse into the evolution and potential of Elvi Wines. Here are the highlights: 2018 Clos Mesorah Sublim This wine is a bold evolution for the brand. The heavy oak on the nose lends itself to layers of ripe black and red fruit, sweet vanilla, and warming spices. The oak is very apparent, both in the nose and taste. The palate is rich and velvety, with acidity tempering the opulence, making it a wine that has a long way to go. As it opened up over several hours, the integration of flavors became a revelation. Sublim is aptly named — a wine that promises greatness with time. I’m excited to see where it goes. 2021 Clos Mesorah This latest vintage of the flagship Clos Mesorah is a tour de force. The blend of Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah offers an exquisite balance of ripe fruit, earthiness, and a touch of umami. Clos Menorah has unique nose, with overripe blackberry forward. Assertive tannins and bright acidity make this wine both approachable and age-worthy. Still young, can’t wait to taste it as it ages in the bottle. 2014 Clos Mesorah (Vertical Tasting) The vertical tasting of the 2014 and 2022 vintages highlighted the evolution of Clos Mesorah. The 2014 has softened with time, revealing a mosaic of dried fruit, smoke, and earth. It’s a wine that whispers its story rather than shouts it, showcasing the rewards of patience. 2022 Siblings by Mesorah This wine is extremely approachable, even now. Designed and created by Cohen siblings David and Leah, this mevushal wine blends accessibility with sophistication. I would call it a young Clos Menorah, still boasting a lot of that same dark black fruit and a tinge of umami. Crafted from Grenache and Carignan, it offers bright fruit flavors and a fresh finish, making it a versatile choice for both casual dining and celebrations, think of it as a sophisticated simcha wine. As the rain poured outside, the warmth of the Cohens’ hospitality enveloped us. The tasting extended late into the evening, followed by a cozy dinner filled with laughter and conversation. If you're in Montreal David Cohen will be coming for a special event on February 6th. Reach out for more info. Support the show Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com