Rashi Claret

Rashi Claret is a semi-sweet kosher red wine made from 100% California grapes, bottled at approximately 11.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Produced by Royal Wine Corp. — one of the largest kosher wine producers in the United States — this fruit-forward claret distinguishes itself through its traditional oak-cask fermentation, a method that lends a rounder, more polished character than many competitors in the semi-sweet kosher category.

Quick Facts: ABV: ~11.5%  |  Origin: California, USA  |  Style: Semi-Sweet Red (Claret)  |  Producer: Royal Wine Corp.

Production & Heritage

Royal Wine Corp., headquartered in New York, has been a cornerstone of American kosher wine production for decades, distributing labels under numerous brands including Rashi. This claret is crafted from carefully selected California grapes, and its fermentation takes place in large oak casks under the guidance of experienced vintners — a step that sets it apart from many mass-market kosher wines that rely exclusively on stainless steel tanks. The oak contact during fermentation contributes subtle structure and a softer mouthfeel, helping bridge the gap between everyday semi-sweet wine and something with noticeably more depth.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: The nose opens with ripe plum and dark cherry, followed by a gentle wave of mixed currant. There is a touch of berry sweetness in the background that keeps things inviting without becoming cloying.

Taste: On the palate, soft berry fruit arrives immediately, anchored by plum and cherry flavors that define the mid-palate. A moderate sweetness balances well against the wine's light tannic framework, creating a rounded, approachable texture that stays fruit-driven throughout.

Finish: The finish is smooth and medium in length, with lingering berry and currant notes that taper gently. There is a faint hint of warmth from the oak fermentation, adding just enough complexity to hold interest.

How to Drink Rashi Claret

Serve lightly chilled — around 60°F — to highlight the fruit character while keeping the sweetness in balance. A brief 15 minutes in the refrigerator before serving can make a noticeable difference.

• Sangria: The semi-sweet, berry-rich profile makes it an excellent base for red sangria, where its natural fruit character reduces the need for added sugar.
• Mulled Wine: Warm spices like cinnamon and clove complement the plum and currant notes without overpowering the wine's inherent softness.
• Spritzer: Mixed with sparkling water and a squeeze of citrus, the claret becomes a refreshing, lower-alcohol warm-weather drink.

Best For

• Shabbat dinners and Jewish holiday celebrations requiring kosher wine
• Introducing new wine drinkers to red wine through a gentle, fruit-forward style
• Casual weeknight meals where an easy-drinking, semi-sweet red fits the mood
• Passover Seder tables seeking an accessible, crowd-pleasing selection

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Rashi Claret taste like? Rashi Claret is a semi-sweet red wine dominated by ripe plum, cherry, and currant flavors, with a smooth, fruit-forward finish that avoids excessive sweetness.

How does Rashi Claret compare to Manischewitz Concord Grape? Manischewitz Concord Grape uses Concord grapes and tends to be noticeably sweeter with a pronounced grapey character, while Rashi Claret is made from California wine grapes and delivers a more traditional red-wine profile with plum and cherry notes. The oak-cask fermentation in Rashi Claret also contributes a smoother, more structured mouthfeel.

Is Rashi Claret good for beginners? Yes — its moderate sweetness and soft tannins make it one of the more approachable kosher red wines, and its fruit-forward style does not require any wine knowledge to enjoy.

Where is Rashi Claret made? Rashi Claret is produced by Royal Wine Corp., a New York-based company, using 100% California-grown grapes that are fermented in large oak casks.

What foods pair well with Rashi Claret? Roasted brisket benefits from the wine's berry sweetness cutting through rich, savory fat. Challah with honey complements the fruit-forward profile. Mild cheeses like Muenster or Havarti echo the wine's soft texture. Dark chocolate or chocolate babka makes a natural dessert pairing, and roasted root vegetables harmonize with the plum and currant notes.

What sizes does Rashi Claret come in? Rashi Claret is most commonly available in the standard 750ml bottle, though 1.5L formats have also been produced.

Is Rashi Claret worth the price? Rashi Claret positions firmly in the value tier of kosher wines, offering oak-cask fermentation and 100% California grapes at a price point that competes directly with the most affordable kosher reds on the market — strong value for everyday use and holiday tables alike.

Why Rashi Claret?

In a category where many semi-sweet kosher reds rely on steel-tank fermentation and Concord or Niagara grapes, Rashi Claret takes a different path by using 100% California wine grapes fermented in large oak casks. That production choice yields a wine with noticeably more structure and red-fruit complexity than most of its direct competitors. It remains firmly accessible — this is not a wine that demands contemplation — but it delivers enough depth to stand up at a holiday table alongside serious food. For anyone seeking a reliable, fruit-driven kosher red that outperforms its modest price tier, Rashi Claret is a proven staple.