When you think of wines, perhaps regions like Italy, France and the United States comes to mine. Did you know that Israel is one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, with a winemaking history dating back thousands of years? The Israeli Wine Producers Association (IWPA) represents about 40 wineries from the Upper Galilee and Golan Heights to Judea and the Jerusalem corridor. Modern winemaking techniques merge with sustainable agriculture that go way back in time. These are wines that pair well with any foods and occasion.
My first thought was about their drier climate and difficult terrain. I learned that they use a drip irrigation system that delivers slow, targeted hydration directly to each vine’s root zone through a precise network of tubes and emitters. Being able to tailor the water delivery by grape variety, soil type, and microclimate means a consistent crop. Sounds genius for a bottle of wine where consistency and soil matters for taste.
There are 3 main grapes in the Israel region: Argaman (red – flavors of blackberry, plum, dark cherry, and Mediterranean spice). Dabouki (white – bright & refreshing acidity) and Marawi (One of the oldest known native grape varieties in the region – floral aromas, citrus notes). Tasting these wines, you just want to plate a good meal and have some great conversations with friends. The bold taste, refreshing white and robust red wines feel like a top shelf pick!
Are you a red wine consumer? Try the Orient RED – an 1848 Winery blend of Marselan, Argaman and Syrah. This has a beautiful balance of acidity, oak and from the Galilee region.
If you prefer white wine, try the Tura Mountain Vista Sauvignon Blanc – a light and crisp wine with aromas of passion fruit, green apple with honeysuckle flowers from the village of Bracha.
