The Dead Sea region is surrounded by some unique vineyards and wineries that are putting the ground with the lowest altitude on Earth on the wine map.
When naming the great wines of the world, few people would consider this region, the farthest below sea level, a serious producer. Over the last few years, however, award-winning wineries and vineyards have been cropping up all around the Dead Sea, making wine connoisseurs think twice about just what’s going on in the desert.
The most acclaimed winery in the region is without doubt Yatir Winery. Located in Tel Arad, just 30 minutes drive from the Dead Sea, Yatir produces award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, as well as a few bold whites like their varietal Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. While renowned for many of their recent wines, Yatir’s celebrated vintages are 2004 and 2006, and their Yatir Forest blend from these years is a must-have.
Slightly further from the Dead Sea, but well worth the short 45-60 trip, is the Kadesh Barne’a Desert Winery (Ramon Wines), featuring some softer and more elegant wines produced from a number of grape varieties. Currently presenting an all-new Desert Series, Ramon Wines has come up with an amazing blend of white grapes using 65% Chardonnay, 25% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Cabernet Franc, as well as a hearty red with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Petit Verdot and 15% Merlot.
To see a larger selection and learn more about viticultural tourism in the Negev
