Simon says: "Did you know the grape vine is mentioned more than any other plant in the Bible?"
The story of grapes in Israel
From the spies carrying a single cluster so large it required two men to bear it (Numbers 13:23), to Jesus declaring "I am the true vine" (John 15:1), the grape is woven into Israel's story like no other fruit.
The Cluster of grapes Cave in Jerusalem - Cave of the Eshkolot, an ancient 1st - 2nd century CE burial cave in Jerusalem from the Second Temple period It served as a lavish tomb for a wealthy Jewish family
The grape is one of the Seven Species that bless the Land (Deuteronomy 8:8). A fruitful vine symbolised Israel at its best, while wild grapes spoke of disobedience (Isaiah 5, Jeremiah 2)
Grapes appear in celebrations, in offerings & in acts of kindness eg when Ziba brought 100 clusters of raisins to sustain the exhausted King David in the wilderness (2 Samuel 16:1)
Israel's diverse climate, from the Mediterranean coast to the Galilee hills, & the Negev desert, creates distinct microclimates that shape each grape's character. The higher altitudes of the Golan & Upper Galilee produce premium wines, while the coastal plains & valleys suit high-yield varieties.
Israel grows both global varieties & indigenous gems:
Cabernet Sauvignon (now the most-planted red), Merlot, Syrah/Shiraz & Sauvignon Blanc lead the premium wine scene.
But the real story lies in the ancient indigenous varieties that have survived for centuries in the Holy Land:
🍷 Dabouki: The name means "sticky" in Arabic. This ancient white variety was once used mainly for table grapes, raisins, & grape molasses (dibs). Today, winemakers are rediscovering it - expect honeyed, floral notes with a hint of melon
🍷 Marawi (Hamdani): Savoury, with subtle peach & apricot notes. Recanati Winery made waves with their Marawi 2014; the first modern Israeli wine from an ancient variety.
🍷 Jandali: Tropical aromas but lighter on the palate. Often blended
🍷 Bittuni & Baladi: Indigenous reds, light-bodied with bright red fruit and cranberry-like acidity. Perfect served chilled as a summer wine!
🇮🇱 Argaman: Not ancient, but uniquely Israeli: created in the 1970s by crossing Carignan and Souzao. Our very own variety!
In biblical times, grapes were used fresh, eating, dried (raisins, perfect for journeys) & wine (pressed in vats & stored in jars).
Today, Israeli grapes produce world-class wines, sacramental wines, grape juice, molasses & arak. The story of the grape in Israel is one of continuity: from the spies of Eshkol to the winemakers of the Judean Hills, the vine keeps bearing fruit.
Mosaic in Or Torah synagogue.
If you're planning a trip to Israel, would you like to add a vineyard & winery tour to your itinerary?
Message us for more info:
📩 imagineisraelenquiries@gmail.com
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