Judea - Israel's First Appellations
Judea (locally pronounced "Yehuda") became Israel's first internationally recognized wine area in November 2019. The ancient Judea Wine Route curls through several excellent wineries of different sizes, and hidden gems such as tasty organic homemade cheese, delicious "home-cooked" private meals and delicious hummus and middle eastern restaurants. Ancient and modern. Welcome to Judea!
Location & Land of the Bible
Judea is located southwest of Jerusalem, partly mountains, partly hills, fertile valleys with many small villages. This is the area where many of the kings of the Hebrew people came from, where the famous Battle of David and Goliath took place, and where Samson walked in the vineyards and met Delilah (wine played an important role in the Samson-Delilah story).
Jerusalem - Ancient and Modern
Thousands of years ago, since the days of King David, Jerusalem has been the nation's religious and government capital. Every spring, in ancient times, the 12 Hebrew tribes took a pilgrimage journey to the Temple in Jerusalem. They walked for days from all corners of the land bringing the first crops and first-born animals to the Temple, gifts of gratitude to God in celebration of another prosperous year. Although the Temple was destroyed 2,000 years ago, modern Israel continues to celebrate the same holiday in June, with dairy foods, cheese, and vegetable dishes accompanied by excellent wines (though no pilgrimage).
Topography, Climate & Soil
Judea has two sub-regions, one is the Judean Hills (400 - 1000 meters) and the other is Judean Foothills, the slopes and valleys, up to 400 meters altitude.
The climate is Mediterranean with warm days, cool nights, and light breezes. The winter season is rainy cold (especially in the higher areas where temperatures can drop around zero) and the summer is hot and sunny, with Mediterranean humidity and morning breezes.
Judea Wines
Judea is the trademark of the Region's Council. The appellations "Judean Hills" and "Judean Foothills" were registered in August 2020 as appellations of origin for wine (AO). Only wines produced from Judea geographical area have the exclusive right to use the AOs.
Only wines produced with at least 85% of region-grown grapes are allowed to carry the trademark "Judea" as an indication of excellence.
The fertile clay and limestone soils of Judea are perfect for Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc as well as for the indigenous unique local varieties of ancient times.
Some of the best vineyards of modern Israel grow in Judea, and the area is quickly turning into a popular wine tourism destination, with wine festivals and warm hospitality.
Typical wines produced are red, rose, and white.