Roni Saslove is one of Israel’s prominent voices in the wine industry, known for her insightful wine critiques, in-depth knowledge of the winemaking process, and dedication to elevating Israeli wine culture. With a background in winemaking herself, Roni brings a unique perspective to wine criticism that combines hands-on expertise with a deep appreciation for Israeli terroir. Her work as a wine writer, educator, and sommelier has made her a respected figure among wine enthusiasts, both in Israel and internationally.

From Winemaker to Wine Critic

Roni Saslove’s journey into wine criticism is rooted in her background as a winemaker. She was born in Canada and moved to Israel, where her father, Barry Saslove, established Saslove Winery in 1998. Although Roni initially pursued a career in molecular biology, she soon became captivated by her father’s winemaking business. She joined the family winery and spent years honing her skills, developing an intimate understanding of the grape-growing process and winemaking techniques.

Her formal training in winemaking took her around the world, studying in Europe and North America, where she learned from some of the best winemakers and gained exposure to diverse wine styles. This experience shaped her appreciation for the delicate balance of flavors, textures, and aromas that define high-quality wines. Her time as a winemaker gave her an insider’s perspective on the challenges and intricacies involved in creating exceptional wines, which later became invaluable in her work as a critic.

A Passion for Israeli Wine

As Roni’s career evolved, she transitioned from winemaking to a role that allowed her to shape the wine conversation in Israel more broadly. Her writing and critiques are often centered on Israeli wines, a subject she feels passionately about. Roni has been a vocal advocate for Israel’s wine industry, which has grown rapidly in recent years, with winemakers producing wines that compete on the global stage. Her critiques focus on the unique characteristics of Israeli wines, shaped by the region's diverse terroirs, warm Mediterranean climate, and the innovative spirit of local winemakers.

One of her key contributions to Israeli wine culture has been her dedication to raising awareness of native grape varieties and sustainable winemaking practices. Roni’s critiques go beyond surface-level tasting notes, diving into the methods, terroir, and personalities behind each wine. She’s particularly interested in how winemakers work with Israel’s unique landscapes, from the Galilee’s rocky slopes to the volcanic soils of the Golan Heights. Through her writing, she brings attention to the diversity within Israeli wines, encouraging readers to explore beyond the traditional varieties and try blends that incorporate grapes like Carignan and Petite Sirah.

Wine Education and Workshops

Roni Saslove is also known for her work as a wine educator. She frequently hosts tastings, workshops, and lectures, sharing her extensive knowledge of Israeli wines and global wine trends with both newcomers and experienced connoisseurs. Her events are characterized by a hands-on, interactive approach that reflects her background as a winemaker. Instead of simply guiding participants through tasting notes, she encourages them to understand the broader story of each wine, from the soil it came from to the techniques used in its production.

One of Roni’s signature educational techniques is “mindful tasting,” which encourages participants to engage all their senses and to be fully present with each sip. This approach reflects her belief that wine tasting should be an immersive, thoughtful experience rather than a rushed or purely technical exercise. Roni has introduced many people to the art of slow, intentional wine tasting, helping them develop a more nuanced understanding of flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel.

Impact on Israeli Wine Criticism

Roni Saslove has made a significant impact on wine criticism in Israel by bringing a holistic and human-centered approach to her work. Unlike many critics who focus solely on the wine in the glass, Roni considers the story behind each bottle, including the winemaker’s vision, the vineyard’s characteristics, and the environmental impact of the production process. Her critiques are thoughtful, honest, and often highlight lesser-known wineries and unconventional wines, giving readers a broader view of Israel’s wine scene.

Roni’s writing has been featured in prominent wine publications, where she frequently discusses trends in Israeli winemaking, the challenges winemakers face, and her predictions for the industry’s future. Her articles provide both local and international audiences with an in-depth look at Israeli wines, demystifying the wine culture in a region that has produced wine for thousands of years but is still emerging on the global wine map.

A Voice for Sustainability and Innovation

As a former winemaker, Roni Saslove understands the impact of agricultural practices on the environment and is a strong advocate for sustainable winemaking. She has highlighted the efforts of Israeli wineries that are adopting organic and biodynamic practices, emphasizing the importance of reducing environmental impact. Her critiques often praise winemakers who prioritize eco-friendly methods, encouraging readers to support wines that are both high-quality and ethically produced.

In an industry where critics can shape consumer preferences, Roni Saslove’s influence has been instrumental in promoting Israel’s unique wine identity. Through her critiques, writing, and educational work, she has become a bridge between winemakers and consumers, helping to build an appreciation for the creativity, resilience, and dedication that define Israeli wines.