The magnificent rolling hills and valleys, the ancient historical structures, the healing powers of the Dead Sea. Few places on earth stir up passion the way that Israel does. Although the Middle East is the historic birthplace of wine, the wines and wineries from Israel are still largely unknown to the rest of the world.
Israel has got five main wine regions including: Galilee, Shomron, Samson, Judean Hills and Negev. The main varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Carignan, Grenache, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Most wine produced in Israel is kosher. Kosher wine is produced the same way conventional wines are made. The only difference is that from the time grapes enter the winery after harvest until bottling of the wine, the grapes and wine can only be handled by a Sabbath-observant (or Orthodox) Jew. A non-Jewish/non-practicing Jewish winemaker can be involved in the process, but they may not handle the wine in barrel or tank.
Over 200 wineries welcome visitors to taste their wines. From wineries in the southern desert to wineries overlooking luscious oak forests in the north. In Israel, as in many other countries around the world, the opportunities for international travel and tourism have been greatly curtailed. In addition to that, many Israelis have never been to a winery or even know that the opportunity for winery tourism exists!
Four wine professionals have teamed up to change this and promote Israeli wine and wine tourism.
Roni Saslove, winemaker and ambassador of the Israeli wine industry. Roni also stars in the popular wine podcast ‘Wine is basic’ along with Guy Haran (below). Guy Haran, a well-respected sommelier who established Vinspiration a wine and culinary tour company. Guy is also a WSET educator and Riedel ambassador. Itamar Gur, proprietor of Studio Gur who branded dozens of local wineries. David Silverman, well-known and respected wine photographer, David's pictures have won awards in International Wine Photography competitions.
‘Wine Journey- Israeli adventure’ is a guide book that captures all the wonderful wineries you can visit on your next trip to Israel. The book is written in English and Hebrew and will be distributed worldwide. It is filled with interesting information about Israeli wine culture and history. In addition, each region will have recommendations of restaurants, cheesemakers, breweries and so much more. Original regional wine maps are included!
I love that it is in paperback format with space on each page to jot down notes and of course - the conveniently scannable QR code links.
The guide is scheduled to be published by the end of 2020.
All images by David Silverman
If you'd like to secure your copy, while helping with the publication costs of the book - click on the link below!
P.s. This is not a sponsored post - I just love Israeli wines!
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