Avi Felstein, born in Israel, was raised in Tel Aviv and pursued tertiary education in literature and philosophy at Tel Aviv University. His professional trajectory evolved from tour guide and bartender to professional poet and writer, ultimately culminating in his role as a celebrated winemaker, particularly renowned for innovations in the Israeli wine industry, such as Segal’s Unfiltered wines and his independent label, Feldstein Winery.
He initiated his managerial career at Segal, serving as Executive Vice President of Business Development when the winery operated independently. His responsibilities encompassed imports and foreign production, and he established Israel’s inaugural school of mixology and bartending, educating numerous Israeli bartenders during the 1990s.
During this decade, Feldstein transitioned to viticulture, becoming one of the pioneers of vinifera cultivation and winemaking in the Galilee, in proximity to Dalton and Kibbutz Yiron (partners with the Galil Mountain winery). Following Tempo/Barkan’s acquisition of Segal, Feldstein transitioned 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 introduced Segal Single Vineyard Rechaim Argaman (2006), the first premium Israeli wine produced from the Argaman varietal. Feldstein’s tenure with Barkan-Segal spanned a decade, concluding in 2010 when he established Feldstein Winery (2014), an enterprise dedicated to crafting elegant, age-worthy wines.
Feldstein’s oenological philosophy emphasizes meticulous vineyard management, minimal intervention, gentle extraction techniques, and a measured oak regimen. He utilizes European varieties, hybrids, and indigenous grapes to create unconventional, innovative wines. In 2024, Avi returned to the Barkan Segal winery as Technical Director, collaborating with Itay Lahat and head winemaker Olivier Fratty to enhance quality standards at Israel’s largest commercial winery.
In My Opinion
Feldstein. Cabernet Sauvignon
The Allure of Israeli Wine
Israel has been producing wine for millennia. The warm climate and diverse soil play a vital role in developing complex flavors, allowing various grape varieties to thrive. Feldstein Winery, with its emphasis on quality and tradition, combines modern techniques with established practices. Its commitment to excellence is evident in the Cabernet Sauvignon, notable for its flavor profile and vinification.
Appearance: Color, Clarity, and Viscosity
Upon decanting, the Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby hue, indicative of its complexity. The wine demonstrates good clarity with enticing aromas of dark fruit notes, accompanied by hints of cedar and spice. On the palate, it presents a smooth and well-rounded mouthfeel with balanced acidity. Tannins are present but not overpowering, creating a pleasant structure that encourages further tasting.
The initial sensory experience is characterized by dark and luscious flavors, with blackcurrants and plums predominating and delivering a fruity intensity. A subtle hint of cedar contributes depth to the overall organoleptic profile.
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
© Dr. Elinor Garely. This copyright article, including photos, may not be reproduced without written permission from the author.
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