Rashi Light Red Concord

Rashi Light Red Concord is a sweet, low-alcohol kosher red wine made from Concord grapes at 5.5% ABV in a 750ml bottle. Its notably light body and fruit-forward sweetness set it apart from conventional red wines, which typically range from 11–15% ABV, making it one of the most approachable kosher wines on the market.

Quick Facts: ABV: 5.5%  |  Origin: New York State, USA  |  Varietal: Concord Grape  |  Certification: Mevushal, OU Kosher (Rabbi Zinner)

Production & Heritage

Rashi wines are produced from Concord grapes grown in New York State, with operations spanning both New York and California under Italian-based kosher winemaking oversight. The wine carries full Mevushal certification under OU rabbinical supervision by Rabbi Zinner, meaning it has been flash-pasteurized and remains kosher regardless of who handles the bottle after opening — a significant practical consideration for observant households and catered events. The intentionally low 5.5% ABV is achieved by arresting fermentation earlier than standard winemaking, preserving the grape's natural residual sugar and producing a lighter, more refreshing style.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: The nose opens with ripe sweet plums and butterscotch, followed by subtle hints of chocolate and warm cinnamon. It reads immediately as Concord — unmistakably grapey and inviting.

Taste: The entry is soft and sweet, led by juicy red berries and dark fruit flavors that recall classic Concord grape juice but with slightly more complexity. Mid-palate, gentle spice and faint herbal notes emerge alongside a whisper of oak, balancing the sweetness enough to keep it from becoming cloying.

Finish: The finish is short and clean, with lingering plum sweetness and a light berry aftertaste. The low alcohol means virtually no heat, leaving a smooth, refreshing close.

How to Drink Rashi Light Red

Serve chilled or slightly below room temperature for the best expression of its fruit character; a light chill tames the sweetness and brings out the berry and plum notes. This wine works well in a Concord Grape Spritzer with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing warm-weather drink. Try it in a Sangria, where its natural grape sweetness reduces the need for added sugar. It also pairs naturally with a Kiddush Cup pour for Shabbat and holiday rituals, where its low alcohol and sweet profile are traditionally preferred.

Best For

• Shabbat, Passover, and Jewish holiday celebrations requiring Mevushal kosher wine
• Wine drinkers who prefer sweeter, lower-alcohol options
• Large catered events where Mevushal certification ensures hassle-free kosher service
• Introducing new wine drinkers to red wine with a gentle, approachable style

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Rashi Light Red taste like? Rashi Light Red Concord is a sweet, fruit-driven wine dominated by flavors of ripe plum, red berries, and butterscotch, with subtle hints of cinnamon and chocolate in the background.

How does Rashi Light Red compare to Manischewitz Concord? Both are sweet kosher Concord grape wines, but Rashi Light Red sits at a significantly lower 5.5% ABV compared to the roughly 11% ABV that Manischewitz traditionally carried, making Rashi the lighter and more sessionable option — though Manischewitz has been largely discontinued from the market.

Is Rashi Light Red good for Kiddush and Shabbat? Yes — its Mevushal certification under OU supervision means it stays kosher regardless of who pours or handles the bottle, and its sweet Concord flavor is the traditional style associated with Kiddush blessings.

Where is Rashi Light Red made? Rashi Light Red Concord is produced in the United States, using Concord grapes from New York State, with winemaking operations based in both New York and California.

What foods pair well with Rashi Light Red? Its sweetness complements challah and honey during Rosh Hashanah, balances the saltiness of brisket, pairs naturally with grape leaves and Middle Eastern appetizers, works alongside mild cheeses and fruit platters, and stands up to rich chocolate desserts where its butterscotch undertones align well.

What sizes does Rashi Light Red come in? Rashi Light Red Concord is available in the standard 750ml bottle size.

Is Rashi Light Red worth the price? Rashi Light Red Concord positions squarely as a value-tier kosher wine, delivering reliable Concord grape sweetness and full Mevushal certification at an accessible price point that makes it practical for both everyday use and buying in quantity for large holiday gatherings.

Why Rashi Light Red?

The defining feature of this wine is its 5.5% ABV — roughly half the alcohol of a typical table wine and among the lowest in the kosher wine category. That distinction is not a gimmick; it genuinely broadens who can enjoy the wine comfortably, from those who are alcohol-sensitive to guests at long holiday meals where multiple cups are poured. The full Mevushal certification under OU rabbinical supervision adds real practical value for observant households and kosher caterers. For anyone seeking a sweet, traditional Concord grape wine that stays light and keeps its kosher status through any style of service, Rashi Light Red fills a specific and hard-to-replace role.