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The “Judea” wine region is located in the center of the state of Israel between the cities of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
The region is divided into two subregions: Judean Hills – which includes the mountain ridge in the east, and Judean Foothills – which includes the strip of slopes and hills facing west towards the Mediterranean Sea.
The regional rock bed is composed of sedimentary calcite rocks and layers of marlstone, upon which are laid mostly Terra Rosa and Rendzina soils.
The Judean region is well known from ancient times as a regionextolled for growing wine grapes. Numerous historical and archeological evidence points to a rich past of vine growing, wine production and trade, beginning from the late Neolithic period. Echoes of the region referred to as “Wine Country” from the dawn of time are also to be found in the bible.
There are three known valleys in the region, each valley identified with its own unique biblical character and biblical story.
In the northwest, the Ayalon Valley, mentioned in the book of Joshua with the conquest of the land of Israel.
To its south, the Sorek Valley, mentioned in the book of Judges in the story of Samson the mighty.
The southernmost valley is the Ella Valley, familiar from the story of the battle between David and Goliath.
Throughout these valleys are remnants of the ancient local wine producing industry which was annihilated with the Muslim conquest of the seventh century. Following the founding of the state of Israel, and especially since the nineties of the twentieth century, wine grape plantings have been revived and expanded. Today, these mountains and valleys are again abundant with vines, and throughout the region, alongside a rich rural tourismindustry, are planted approximately 1,500 hectares of wine grapes.
The “Judea” wine region is endowed with an ideal combination of conditions for the cultivation of wine grapes and is characterized by a variety of unique growing zones suitable for both red and white grape varietals.
A prominent and fundamental characteristic in our warm region are the river valleys. The river valleys slice the region crosswiseand assist in cooling the grapes, by transporting the cool air gliding down from the mountains during the early morning hours and moving the afternoon breeze rising up from the sea.
As a result, the vineyards of the Judean Hills are mostly planted on terraces built on the inclined slopes of the mountains; throughout the Judean Foothills most of the vineyards are planted within the dry riverbeds (wadis).
The winter – relatively cool – and the rain quantities, provide a suitable basis for the vineyards towards the growing season. The notable difference between day and night temperatures assists in slowing down the fruit maturation and in maintaining acidity in the grapes.
The fruit obtained in the Judean region is precise, displaying prominent varietal characteristics. The wines of Judea – red and white – are characterized as elegant, serene and reserved, with an aroma and taste profile of scrub and Mediterranean herbs. The wines show earthly tones, customary with vineyards planted on calcite soils, and are well balanced with tannins.
In August of 2020 the applications filed for Appellations of Origin for the Judean wine region were approved – bestowing on the region the title of first official wine appellation in Israel.
The regional wine bottles are labeled with a unique mark, indicating and guaranteeing that the wines were produced from quality grapes grown within the boundaries of the “Judea” wine region or one of its sub-regions: “Judean Hills” and “Judean Foothills”.
Come and experience the first internationally recognized wine region of Israel and enjoy the variety of wines produced within, the diverse culinary tastes, the archaeological and heritage sites and the tourist and agricultural attractions which the region has to offer. Come and taste the wines crafted by scores of boutique wineries, producing wines of many styles and from an assortment of varieties
Follow the Wines of the Bible footsteps : myth, history, archeology, landscape and vineyards
Ayalon Valley
Clos de Gat Winery is situated in the foothills of the Judean Mountains, bordering Israel’s biblical Ayalon Valley, where Joshua defeated the Five Kings. An ancient “Gat” (Hebrew for wine press), pre-dating the Roman period by a thousand years, is located by the house set in the heart of the vineyards.
Kadma Winery is the only winery in Israel that uses clay casks as a part of the wine production process. Our winery revives old wine making techniques that were used in the region in ancient times by combining the ancient technology with modern knowledge. Our winery is located in Kfar Uriah, just half waybetween Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Groups and private tours are welcome and held in the winery.
Kadma Winery – Wine More Wine (kadma-wine.co.il)
Latron Winery is a maze of chambers, halls, cloisters and tunnels. An underground tunnel connects the monastery to the winery and Even on the hottest days, the temperature remains a pleasant 18c – 20c. The monastery has around 40 hectares of vineyards with over 20 vine varieties. The vineyards are planted in the grounds surrounding the monastery-heavier on its north side and lighter, lime soil on its southern side. All grapes are harvested manually.
HOLY WINE – Domain de Latroun Wine (holy-wine.com)
“Iza Pziza“ – Goat Farm and Dairy – Come learn about the fascinating world of goats, milk and cheese making while touring our beautiful farm! On the tour, we will meet the goats and hear all about their lifestyle and habits. After the tour there will be tastings from an assortment of cheeses and yogurts.
עיזה פזיזה| דף הבית (izapzizadairy.com)
Khan Sha’ar Hagai National Heritage Site, also known as Bab el-Wad, is a national memorial site. The khan, which was built as a wayside inn during the Ottoman period, is situated in the narrow opening of Wadi Nahshon on the main road connecting the lowlands with Jerusalem. This road saw fierce battles during the War of Independence, and in memory of the men and women who took part in them, a heritage center was established in the khan, dedicated to those who broke through the road to Jerusalem.
Khan Sha’ar Hagai National Heritage Site – Israel Nature and Parks Authority
Flam Winery – Overlooking the spectacular view of the Jerusalem Mountains, lies the Flam Winery. It was established in 1998 with the objective of producing quality Israeli wines that best reflect the local terroir. Believing in the Judean Hills Wine Region, Flam Winery has vineyards in Eshtaol, GivatYeshayahu and Even Sapir alongside other vineyards, all of which are cared for under strict and uncompromising supervision. The winery combines meticulous, manual work methods, along with an intimate knowledge of the vineyards in a constant pursuit for excellence and authenticity.
Holocaust Martyrs Forest – Anne Frank Memorial – The forest is a silent, powerful and natural memorial to the millions of Jews who perished in the Holocaust. At its heart stands the famed “Scrolls of Fire” memorial created by the well-known sculptor Nathan Rapaport chronicling the events of the Holocaust in Europe and the revival of the State of Israel.
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – KKL-JNF – Holocaust Martyrs Forest – Anne Frank Memorial
Sorek Valley
Tzora winery – Our wines are produced from our estate grown vineyards in the Judean Hills, and express the character of their terroir. The wines are named accordingly: ‘Judean Hills’ Red and Blanc, which reflect the historical wine region of Judean Hills. Located high in the Judean Hills, Shoresh vineyard has a wide range of small parcels varying in elevation and soils, such as Moza Marl, Terra-Rosa and deep bands of limestone. This natural variation gives birth to an array of terroirs, which create wines of great complexity and longevity. Our tasting room is conveniently located between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We offer a guided tasting of wines, by appointment only.
Tzora Vineyards – Judean Hills, Israel |
Mony Winery – The uniqueness of Mony Winery is reflected in the combination of fine vineyards with a wide variety of grape varietals grown at the foot of the Sorek Valley, with unique people who produce it. The winery was founded by Shakib Artoul, the father of the family and an olive merchant, who came to the area from the Lower Galilee. Artoul recognized the potential of the quality of the grapes that the vineyards would yield. Today, about 1,00 hectares of vines are planted in the hills around the winery, yielding grapes of wonderful quality.
About Us – MonyEstatewinery (mony-vineyard.co.il)
The Biblical Museum of Natural History – A unique institution that is part zoo, part natural history museum, and completely educational and fun! It showcases the animal world of the Bible with a fascinating array of both live and non-live exhibits. Visits are conducted via guided and self-guided tours, which include hands-on experiences! Through the exciting and interactive tour, visitors learn the identities and symbolism of the animals of Scripture, lessons in Jewish values, law and history, and the natural history of Biblical Israel.
Home | Biblical Museum of Natural History | Israel (biblicalnaturalhistory.org)
Ella Valley
Sphera Winery – A boutique winery of exquisite white wines from the Judean Foothills. Each element of the winery is in harmony with our white concept, which carefully balances nature, innovative technology and a delicate, artistic touch. Winemaker and co-owner Doron Rav Hon studied viticulture in Burgundy, France, completing his apprenticeship at Domaine Jacques Prieur and a specialization in sparkling wines in Champagne. Precision and minimal intervention define his creative philosophy.
Sphera Winery – White wine professionals
Agur Winery lies adjacent to Ella Valley, in the beautiful Judean Foothills. The winery’s vineyards, in Mata, GivatYeshayahu and Ein Kerem, produce a limited number of wines which are the creative work and art of a grower, a winemaker and a vineyard. Each wine is an expression of a person and a place. The winery visitors’ center and garden is bubbling with activity, offering a unique wine experience for Israelis and tourists. There are tutored tastings or an opportunity to taste quietly. Wines are enjoyed alongside local artisan products.
Home Page – יקב עגור – הרי יהודה (agurwines.com)
ELLA VALLEY WINERY is an ESTATE winery in the Ella Valley region that is known worldwide as the site of the famous battle between David and Goliath. However, in ancient times the valley was just as famous for the wines produced in it. The historical tradition of viticulture and winemaking, forgotten for centuries, was revived in the early 1990s. The establishment of the Ella Valley Winery in 1998 brought back to the area a wine culture that is thousands of years old, combined with the knowledge and tools of the 21st century. The principles that guided the founders of the winery were to produce excellent wine by taking advantage of the unique benefits and conditions of the region. The winery produces about 300,000 bottles a year.
home – יקב עמק האלה (ellavalley.com)
Tel Azeka Scenic Lookout: A beautiful view from the high summit of Tel Azeka overlooks the Ella Valley to the east, the site of the battle between David and Goliath, as described in the Bible. To reach the top of the Tel, one must climb a short footpath, a 2-minute climb. Tel Azeka is on the northern edge of British Park. The park spans an area of 4,000 hectares (10,000 acres), on the slopes of hills that rise more than 400 meters above sea level. This is an area rich in planted forest, natural woodland and archeological sites.
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – KKL-JNF – Tel Azeka Scenic Lookout
Adulam-France Park – A Biblical Landscape is an open space which brings together nature, agriculture and historical sites. It is an area of round and low hills, covered mostly with Mediterranean growth. The ravines between the hills have been used for agriculture for thousands of years, mostly to grow wheat and grapes. In the winter and in the spring, the hills are covered with colorful flowers. There is walking and cycling tracks in the park. On the paved roads, travelers can arrive by car to the main sites. The park is named after the biblical Adulam, widely believed to be located in what is now Tel Adulam (Hirbet a-Sheikh Madkur), a site within the park.
kkl-jnf.org/tourism-and-recreation/forests-and-parks/adulam-france-park/
EZRaider – Off-road riding in the Ella Valley Exciting and Innovative tours in the beautiful Ella Valley. We will take the first turn into the forest trails and from there we will head towards our touristic greenhouses. Our greenhouses were built with a vast know how of the very best seed companies, Agronomists & Chefs to create the all-times winning experience from seed to plate. The riders will enjoy short explanations and tastings of the different crops we grow. On the way back we will ride into the Britania Park to see the spectacular observatory point and stunning views of the valley from up high.
אייזי ריידר | טיולים בעמק האלה (ezraider.co)
Haela Tours – “Because the land is Excellent”: Come experience Israel like you have never experienced before. Special tours in the Israeli nature and adrenaline experiences, perfect fun events, experiences and good food. Safari vehicles, Jeeps, ATVs, Rangers, Tomcars, Rappelling, Cliff Surfing, Omega surfing, Rope bridges, field deployments, Nature Events and more.
Haela Tours – Israel is an excellent land – Haela Desert Tours (hdt.co.il)
The Judean Hills
DOMAINE DU CASTEL– The Ben Zaken family values are present throughout the winery – in all aspects, including the wine itself. As we strive to create the best possible wine from our grounds, we hope to also share our values with others. In 1988, almost by chance, Eli Ben Zaken planted the first modern-day vineyard to be found in the Judean Hills, in the backyard of his home in Ramat Raziel. Within four years’ time, family and close friends came together to harvest the grapes that would become the winery’s very first wine – Castel Grand Vin 1992.
The visit includes a guided tour and wine tasting. Join us in our cozy tasting room or on our open patio (in the summer) and discover our wines and the unique story behind our winery. We will guide you through a short walk to our cellar and tasting experience, which includes a selection of our current release, accompanied by a cheese platter.
Tzuba Winery – The winery’s Visitor Center is located on a magical spot overlooking the Judean Hills. There is a biblical winepress on the premises that reflects our strong attachment to the land and history. We get much pride and satisfaction from returning the wine industry to the Judean Hills, an ancient cradle of winemaking. The spectacular vista, green environment and clear air create a perfect scene for magical wine experiences.
We invite you to a visit that includes explanations and tastings of 4 types of wines, alongside the wine you can order a rich cheese palette including cheeses, bread, vine leaves, vegetables and dips, pizzas, focaccia, burrata salad, beet carpaccio. On request we offer chef meals and a full menu.
עמוד הבית – יקב צובה (tzubawinery.co.il)
Nevo Winery Located in the heart of Judean Hills. Each Nevo Winery vintage has its own story, where planned precision meets intuitive spontaneity. Every single barrel is carefully and personally selected in France, and then imported to complement and enhance the flavor of the wine. The unique combination of precision, history and spirituality can be felt in each sip.
Home – יקב נבו (nevowinery.co.il)
Nurit Hertz Culinary tours in Israel / Judean Cuisine – The tastes of Jerusalem, Judean hills & Ella Valley. After 20 years of guiding tours all over Israel, Nurit now specializes in Jerusalem and Judean Mountains area. Her culinary tours focus on biblical culture, historic religion, Israeli culture, and local culinary experience. Nurit is a talented chef who constantly explores the tastes and aroma of local cuisine.
Culinary tours in Israel / Judean Cuisine ⋆ with Nura-Tourists guide & Chef (nura-cooking.co.il)
Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve– The Reserve encompasses an extensive natural woodland area and the largest and most beautiful stalactites-stalagmites cave in Israel.
Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve – Israel Nature and Parks Authority
En Hemed National Park – the park is intended mainly for recreation and tourism, and therefore includes a large expanse of lawns, picnic tables under the shade of the trees. Crusader fortress and remains of an agricultural farm : in the southern part of the park is a fortified building from the Crusader period, which appears to have served a farm. The ancient remains have been taken care of and preserved, adding a mysterious and magical historical aspect to the park.Recycled flow of stream water: a closed system collects the spring water flowing through the streambed of Kesalon Stream and brings it back to the starting point. Path to the burial cave: a circular walking trail leading to the First Temple era burial cave. The cave is to the south of the stream.
En Hemed National Park – Israel Nature and Parks Authority
Hotels in the Judea Wine Region
Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam Hotel and Conference Center Hospitality in the Spirit of Peace. Our hotel is located in the heart of the Judean wine region in the Jewish-Arab village of Wahat al-Salam / Neve Shalom facing the Ayalon Valley. The Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam Hotel features 41 family rooms surrounded by cultivated gardens and expansive lawns.Our guests can look forward to a culinary experience at the hotel’s Dokka Restaurant, which offers authentic home-made Arab cuisine. Various halls of different sizes may be hired for conferences and events that are suitable for groups of up to 300 guests.
Neve Shalom Hotel – Official Website © Best Offers (neve-shalom.co.il)
Green Hills in Shoresh overlooks Jerusalem in the east, the Mediterranean Sea in the west and spectacular views in the north. Surrounded by green nature, the rooms offer guests a pastoral and peaceful countryside resort. The hospitality tradition began with the opening of Jerusalem’s first pool in 1967 by members of Shoresh. A few years later the legendary Shoresh Hotel was established. Generations of moshav members worked and hosted thousands of customers for decades and were trailblazers for tourism in the area. Our mission is to allow you to have the best conditions to enjoy and experience all that we and our environment have to offer you.
Neve Ilan Hotel – In a green and pastoral setting, in the heart of the Jerusalem Hills, lies the Neve Ilan Hotel. The hotel is ideally located – only a short drive from Jerusalem and about a half hour from Tel Aviv. Its landscape design is suitable for a family vacation, for a romantic getaway, or a recreational trip, as well as for exclusive conferences. Restaurants, wineries, olivepresses, monasteries, marked hiking trails, parks, bike trails and natural groves – are just part of what this area has to offer. The hotel has 174 spacious rooms and lovely areas. All of these are “spiced” with the original and diverse dining experience and the clear mountain air, all year long!Exclusive to Neve Ilan! A complex only for kids – an activity center divided into different rooms – from a Gymboree for the little ones, vehicles, and a mini supermarket, to a computer room, video games, and movie room.
C Hotel Neve Ilan – Hotel near Jerusalem (c-hotels.co.il)
Almond Hotel – Adult Boutique Hotel – The C-Hotels Chain is proud to launch the Almond Hotel – A contemporary design boutique hotel that offers luxurious hospitality experience combining flavors, aromas and spa with natural beauty landscapes. An exciting, colorful and joyous experience in the perfect spot – about half an hour from the center and Jerusalem. The new hotel has 60 extremely spacious rooms, meticulously designed, including rooms with adjacent pools, gardens or balconies overlooking spectacular vistas. The hotel’s restaurant – The View – is a concept restaurant that offers an atmosphere full of “chic” and style with rustic decor, clear air and a gourmet menu that changes daily. The hotel also offers the innovative Almond Spa complex with its 9 treatment rooms and a variety of facilities. You can also enjoy the hotel’s rooftop pool overlooking a breathtaking view of the coastal plain and the Jerusalem mountains.
New!! Almond Hotel by C-Hotels
Cramim Hotel Spa & Wine – Cramimcombines green views and fresh mountain air with fine wines from the region’s many sprawling vineyards. The hotel’s fascinating allure is only enhanced by its location on the outskirts of Jerusalem, surrounded by monasteries, boutique wineries, springs, and secret trails. There are 155 beautifully-appointed suites and luxury rooms at the Cramim, with beautiful details that include elegant lighting fixtures. Most have spacious balconies that draw you outside to revel in magnificent views of the Jerusalem Hills.The vineyards around the hotel grow aromatic Gewürztraminer and ever-popular Cabernet grapes, and, during harvest season, hotel guests can even participate in the harvesting. The exclusive Cramim spa presents a wealth of beauty and body pampering opportunities to help you relax and recharge. The hotel welcomes guests ages 10 and older
Cramim Hotel -Luxurious Spa & Wine Hotel in the Jerusalem Hills | Isrotel
Logos Hotel in Yad HaShmona is perched on top of a Judean mountain range 700m above sea level, surrounded by stunning vistas with dramatic landscapes of forested mountains, valleys and pastoral green spaces that inspire a calm and peaceful atmosphere. ‘Logos’ is the new name of the much loved ‘Yad HaShmonaCountry Hotel’ .In addition to the new name, Logos Hotel has undergone a range of renovations and refreshments with new bathrooms, new beds and the addition of a newly built wing with spacious ‘Superior Rooms’ boasting a contemporary and modern design.
Logos Hotel in Yad HaShmona – Logos Hotel
Ramat Rachel Hotel – With a clear and expansive view of the stunningly beautiful Judean Hills, the Ramat Rachel Resort offers high-quality accommodations in a pastoral setting just minutes away from the city of Jerusalem. The hotel is located near USA Embassy and Talpiot, nestled in a peaceful green setting, is surrounded by natural groves and captivating hills. All ofits 165 spacious rooms are enhanced by clear views of this magnificent landscape.all visitors enjoy the serenity of the Ramat Rachel Resort, along with the many attractions, activities, and pleasures right on the kibbutz and in the nearby city of Jerusalem. Hotel guests are enjoying from free entrance to our impressive RCLUB Country club that makes the perfect vacation experience, outdoor summer swimming pool, Indoor and heated swimming pool, Indoor kids swimming pool Jacuzzi, dry and steam saunas, tennis courts, soccer fields. Just a short walk from the hotel lobby are the lush green lawns of the Sports Center, as well as other attractions, such as the Olive Columns Park, Mitzpeh Yair, the Archeological Park, and Eyal’s Farm.
Ramat Rachel Hotel in Jerusalem | Home page
Tzuba Hotel in the Jerusalem Hills – Tzuba Hotel offers a pastoral vacation in a natural environment. The spacious suites are perfectly suited for a family visit
The hotel is nestled among our vineyards and surrounded by the breathtaking view of the Judaean Hills. Tzuba tourism offers a variety of family experiences, Free entry to KIFTZUBA Attraction Park, Chocolate workshops at GALITA Chocolate-farm, Wine tasting at TZUBA WINERY and Guided tours and walking trails.
Tzuba Hotel in the Judean Hills
Yearim Hotel featuring 130 renovated rooms, designed to a high level of finish and outfitted and serviced in the finest way, is your promise of a pampering, enjoyable holiday. The hotel offers both Superior and romantic, spacious, indulgent Deluxe rooms – some with a balcony overlooking the breathtaking vistas, others with private garden and views of the verdant landscape. The hotel’s professional staff is familiar with every aspect and detail of culture and nature in the surrounding areas, promising guests a holiday in nature in a unique and charming hospitality ambience. The hotel also has a pampering spa with a heated, covered swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi, spa treatments, days of indulgence for couples, groups and companies. The Yearim Hotel features 13 conference halls of various sizes, suitable for large and international conferences, commercial events, seminars and workshops, as well as for private events, in a unique, quiet atmosphere, surrounded by quiet and greenery, opposite breathtaking vistas of the Jerusalem Hills.
GORDONIA – PRIVATE HOTEL From Gordonia, every sunset looks like it was painted just for you. The hills of Jerusalem and the trails of history are spread out at your feet and the world is awash in colors so bright, it’s like nothing you’ve seen before. Hospitality at every luxurious villa is customized to meet your personal preferences. We strive to get to know you personally from the very first interaction, so that we can ensure an enchanting private hospitality experience created just for you. Spectacular views over high trees and the hills of Jerusalem can be enjoyed alongside a clear, refreshing private outdoor pool, personal concierge, and dedicated chef, ensuring unending tranquility. With private space to breathe in the intoxicating aroma of crisp mountain air, this is a vacation for those who hold the highest standards.
Gordonia Hotel – Private Hotel in Jerusalem Mountains
