The Negev and Mateh Yehuda wine regions have received the prestigious international recognition, marking a significant milestone for Israeli wine tourism.
On December 29, 2024, Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Haim Katz, and Emanuela Panke, President of the Iter Vitis Federation, presented the Iter Vitis Awards in the minister’s office. These awards celebrate the Judean Wine Region in the Mateh Yehuda Regional Council and the Negev Wineries Club, led by the Merage Foundation Israel.
Although the awards were officially granted during ceremonies abroad in October 2023 and 2024, the ongoing conflict delayed the official recognition in Israel, which was held this morning in a heartfelt ceremony.
International Recognition for Israeli Wine Routes
For the past two years, the Ministry of Tourism has worked diligently to secure international recognition for Israel’s wine routes through collaborations with the Cultural Route of the Council of Europe Iter Vitis. This effort bore fruit when, in 2023, the Negev Wineries Club was honored for its innovative and unique wine route. Located in the heart of the desert, the Negev wine route tackles global climate challenges while combatting desertification.
In 2024, the “Biblical Wine Route” in the Judean Wine Region of Matte Yehuda received recognition for its outstanding heritage and contribution to global wine tourism. These awards firmly place Israel’s wine regions among the world’s leading wine destinations. Both regions have also earned a place in the prestigious Wine Museum in Bordeaux, further highlighting their global importance.
Wine Tourism: A Bridge Between Culture and Innovation
Minister of Tourism Haim Katz emphasized the ministry’s commitment to promoting wine tourism as a vital cultural and economic asset:
“The ministry has worked to achieve international recognition for the wineries of Mateh Yehuda and the Negev Highlands. The wine routes offer a unique experience, sharing the story of regions rich in flavors and traditions. Wine tourism serves as a bridge between culture, history, sustainability, and innovation, attracting influential visitors and audiences worldwide who seek to discover the magic of Hebrew wine, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. Congratulations to the winners.”
Veronique Louria, Head of International Relations at the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the synergy between wine tourism and heritage:
“The intersection of wine tourism and heritage has emerged as a key value in strengthening wine destinations in recent years. This combination not only reveals rich winemaking traditions but also serves as a tool for preserving and revitalizing cultural heritage.”
Local Leadership Celebrates the Achievement
Avishai Cohen, Head of the Matte Yehuda Regional Council, reflected on the region’s success:
“Winning this prestigious award is a testament to our extensive efforts and commitment to promoting the Judean Wine Region on the international stage. We are proud to showcase our unique wine heritage, reflecting a remarkable blend of history, innovation, and local tourism. Thank you to everyone who turned this dream into reality.”
Nicole Hod Stroh, CEO of the Merage Foundation Israel, celebrated the recognition of the Negev wine route:
“The Merage Foundation, which leads the Negev Wineries Club, is proud of the Iter Vitis Award granted to the ‘Wine Route in the Negev.’ This recognition places Negev wineries at the forefront of global innovation and heritage in the wine industry. Wine tourism is much more than wine tasting—it is an immersive experience that connects nature, history, culture, and heritage, establishing the Negev as a world-class tourism destination.”
A Future of Growth and Global Connectivity
These awards not only celebrate the dedication of Israel’s wine regions but also highlight their potential to become leading destinations for international wine enthusiasts. With their rich history, innovative approaches, and breathtaking landscapes, the Negev and Mateh Yehuda wine routes embody the spirit of Iter Vitis’ mission: to preserve and promote the heritage of wine culture as a global treasure.
Iter Vitis Israel
Previous and ongoing actions
