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

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Email your questions and comments to kosherwinepodcast@gmail.com

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

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