Jewish Law
When to Say HaTov VeHaMeitiv: Guide to the Blessing on a Second Wine
The halachic conditions for reciting HaTov VeHaMeitiv — types of wine, timing, intent, meal requirements, and more
- Responsa of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef
- |Updated
The blessing of HaTov VeHaMeitiv is said when one gives thanks to Hashem for various types of pleasure received. The sages instituted this blessing when people are drinking wine and a second wine of a different type is brought before them. One recites this blessing over the second wine only when all of the following conditions are fulfilled:
1. No “Hesech HaDa’at” (interruption of intent)
The blessing is recited only if there was no interruption of intent before drinking the second wine. Meaning: when they drank the first wine, they intended to continue drinking wine. If however they had decided not to drink more wine — such as during a meal where they drank wine, then recited Birkat HaMazon, and only afterward another wine was served, they do not recite HaTov VeHaMeitiv on the second wine.
2. Some of the first wine must remain
One does not recite the blessing unless some of the first wine is still present. If it was completely finished, the blessing is not recited.
3. The second wine must be better — or at least not known to be inferior
The blessing is recited only when the second wine is superior to the first, or at least when they do not know for certain that it is inferior.
4. The wines must be from different types
The blessing is said only when the second wine is made from a different type of wine — such as Merlot vs. Cabernet Sauvignon.
However, HaTov VeHaMeitiv may also be recited on two wines of the same type if:
one is aged and the other is new, or
they come from different wineries or vineyards, giving them noticeably different flavors.
5. Two people must be present
The blessing is recited only if at least two people are drinking together. Both must drink from the first wine and then from the second.
6. It must be during a meal with bread
The blessing is recited only when the wines are served during a meal that includes bread. If they are drinking wine outside of a meal, HaTov VeHaMeitiv is not recited.
All these laws are explained at length in Yabia Omer, Volume 9 (Siman 108), in Chazon Ovadia – Hilchot Berachot, and in Halacha Berura, Volume 9 (Siman 175).
