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These past years, Israel has become a real winemaking powerhouse, producing exquisite award-winning wines. Many archeological findings testify to the fact that getting a little tipsy is definitely an ancestral pastime in this part of the world: amphorae and other winemaking utensils that date back to more than 3,000 years ago, have been discovered across the country. Vineyards are the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, a day of fun with friends, or a family picnic. Here’s an overview of the country’s best wineries and wine routes. The wine routes of the Golan Heights The earth here is rich with minerals and the weather ideal for vines: rainfall, heat in the day, cold temperatures at night. The “Golan Heights Winery” is the first winery to have been founded here 40 years ago and is considered one of the nation’s trailblazing establishments that paved the way for Israeli winemakers. There are now more than 20 wineries here, that draw visitors year-round, keen to explore the beautiful surroundings and taste the delicious wine. Here are two exceptional Golan wineries well worth a visit: Château Golan Winery, Moshav Eliad: one of the oldest wineries in the region, it is probably also one of the grandest. Wine tastings take place in the elegant cellar. Château Golan Winery Assaf Winery, Moshav Kidmat Tzvi: a family-friendly hospitality hub with a B&B, a coffee shop and a winery managed by a second-generation family of farmers. Tours of the vineyard and wine tasting sessions are organized in the moshav kitchen where visitors delight in delicious cakes, sourdough breads, tapas-style food, meat and fish dishes, cheeses,

local vegetables, and more. assafwinery.com

More wineries in the Golan Heights: Bazelet Hagolan, Mika Winery, Tel Shifon. The wine routes of the Galilee The Galilee is considered the wine capital of Israel with up to five thousand acres of vineyards, and more than 40 wineries. Once a year (May 17 th and 18 th this year), a wine festival takes place in Rosh Pina (wine.galil.gov.il). Here are two of the region’s best wineries: Galil Mountain Winery: surrounded by vineyards and forests, this winery is a joy to explore. Guided tours show visitors the whole winemaking process and include a winetasting session. Pro tip: take your wine glass out with you onto the balcony and let your eyes feast on the superb view. galilmountain.co.il/en

Château Golan I Photo: Shachar Fleischmann

Bazelet Hagolan I Photo: Boaz Eshkol

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ATMOSPHERE APRIL 2023