The diverse terroir of Israel undoubtedly plays a key role in what makes Israeli wines so successful. Grapes for wine can be grown in a variety of Israeli environments, from the arid Golan Heights to the lush Galilee. These environments encourage winemakers to try new approaches to winemaking and enable for all kinds of wines to be made from unique, vast grape varietals.
Israel’s wine culture goes all the way back to biblical times. Wine was an important part of the Israelite culture; it is described in the Bible as a sign of celebration and is commonly found in Israelite tombs. As a result, Israel now has a vibrant wine sector that produces a diverse range of wines, from classic kosher varieties to experimental new releases.
The Golan Heights Wine Region
The Golan Heights in Israel’s northeast is one of the country’s most celebrated wine-growing areas. Grapes thrive in the region’s volcanic soil and high altitude, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to several renowned wineries, including Carmel Winery and Golan Heights Winery. Wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, as well as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, are particularly well-known from the area.
The concentrated berry flavors, velvety tannins and lively acidity of these wines have earned them a solid reputation. Many of the region’s wineries also make classic sparkling wines of exceptional quality which are currently earning acclaim around the world. A longer grape growing season results in wines that are more nuanced and well-structured in
