Price Range
From -/- per person
Starting at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
Ending at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
Blurb right here
A tour for wine lovers in an area where wine is produced since biblical times
• Visit some of the finest wineries in the beautiful hills between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Gallery of Trip
Viticulture was always a central part of agriculture in the Middle East. The first vineyard in the history of mankind is attributed to Noah: "And Noah began to be an husbandman, and he planted a vineyard. And he drank of the wine, and was drunken..." (Genesis 9:20-21). Winegrowing was so widespread that the Fruit of the Vine was listed in the book of Deuteronomy as one of the Seven Species the Land of Israel (Deut 8:8). In almost every archeological site from pre-biblical time to the late Byzantine period - ancient wine press can be found. Under Muslim rule winemaking was limited (7-20th century AD, with a short revival during the Crusaders era on the 11-12th century AD). Modern Israeli wine industry was established by Baron Edmond de Rothchild, who supported the early Zionists in the 1880's, and founded the Carmel Winery - first of many in modern Israel.
Today Israeli wine is world-renowned with a highly efficient operation and the small, independent wineries retain a romantic, pioneering spirit.
On this day we will tour some exquisite wineries in the outskirts of Jerusalem, around the Low Plains of Judea. These are Kosher wineries that are open throughout the week, but take a day off on the Shabbat.
Today Israeli wine is world-renowned with a highly efficient operation and the small, independent wineries retain a romantic, pioneering spirit.
On this day we will tour some exquisite wineries in the outskirts of Jerusalem, around the Low Plains of Judea. These are Kosher wineries that are open throughout the week, but take a day off on the Shabbat.
Activities:
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Begin the day at Tzora Winery
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Tzora Vineyards - Visit Tzora Winery, a small boutique winery located on Kibbutz Tzora near Beit Shemesh. The winemaker is Israel’s only winemaker to hold the title “Master of Wine.” He is an experienced agronomist and vintner, and is involved in the entire process, from growing and tending the vines, to the harvesting and winemaking, to produce fine wines.
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Continue to the Ela Valley
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Emek ha-Ela Wineries - Emek Ha-Ela Winery, one of Israel's commercial wineries, has refinement as a key value. "An elegant wine is a “wide” wine that slowly releases the flavors and reveals new things to you as it passes through the nose, tongue, and palate, creating a complex experience. Elegance is also expressed in the way the wine ages, matures and improves," they describe their work. Tour the winery and taste their wines.
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The last stop of the day will be at a very unique winery.
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Sphera Winery - Sphera Winery is a boutique winery featuring only white wines from the Judean Hills of Israel. "We believe in a clear and minimalistic approach that brings out the fruits’ true essence, while ensuring wines that are layered with rich and complex flavours."
FAQ
What's the weather like in Israel?
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In Israel, the northern and coastal areas enjoy a Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are hot and dry, while winters are cool and rainy. Down south and in the east, it's much drier. Rainfall usually comes between October and early May, with the most rain falling from December to February.
It is always best to check the weather forecast beforehand.
Spring (late March – May): Daytime temperatures are generally very pleasant - around 65-70°F, though it can still be hot in some areas (such as the Dead Sea and Eilat). There is a slight chance of rain, but it doesn't happen often. It can be cooler in the evenings in the North and Jerusalem - approximately 45°F.
Summer (late May - late September): Temperatures are usually in the high 80s-90s. At this time of year, humidity will be highest in Tel Aviv and Tiberias. Other areas such as Jerusalem are drier and cooler, particularly at night. The desert, Masada and Eilat are extremely hot, but dry. It will almost never rain in the summer in Israel!
Fall (late September – November): Same as Spring, but the rain can begin towards the end of the season.
Winter (December - early March): Winter can be mild and sunny, or severe and overcast. There's often heavy rain and, in January and February, even snow at times! Temperatures will be in the 50s-60s most places, but in the 40s in Jerusalem and the Galilee hills, and cold at night. Pack layers and be prepared for anything!
Weekly weather forecast
How much cash should I bring with me?
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Walking around with a large amount of cash isn’t advisable anywhere. Fifty to a hundred dollars in local currency is more than enough to cover small purchases and meals. Change your currency in Israel - it can be done easily almost everywhere. But, taking a few extra minutes at the airport to do this is always a good idea. You can also usually use your debit card to withdraw shekels from most ATMs, but make sure you check your bank's foreign transaction fees and exchange rate.
What is the situation with regard to COVID-19 in Israel?
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The rules regarding COVID-19 are fluid and change often, based on what is happening around the globe. We will continue to update you regarding current guidelines.
Currently, the State of Israel does not require one to present a COVID-19 vaccination or recovery certificate, or a negative test result in order to enter or leave the country. It is advised that you check with your airline to confirm their requirements, as they may differ. As of October 9, it is no longer required to complete an entry form to enter Israel.
Please note the following:
- Health Insurance It is a condition of your booking through Via Sabra / Israel4All, as well as the State of Israel, that you obtain travel health insurance which includes coverage for COVID-19. Please note that you may be denied boarding of your flight to Israel if you cannot show proof of this when you check in for your flight.
- Travel Insurance In addition, we strongly recommend that you purchase full travel insurance which includes coverage for ‘cancellation under any circumstances and for any reason’. It is recommended to purchase insurance as soon as the booking is made, as this coverage is often dependent on purchasing as close to the time of booking. You can purchase travel insurance through our partner, Travel Insured, an experienced company and one of the largest in the industry, through this link.
Terms of Payment
Deposit is due immediately to secure the booking.
Balance for the trip is due no later than 60 days prior to the first day of trip. An invoice will be sent 90 days before the trip.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions here.
Please note:
- The itinerary is subject to change as a result of unforeseen changes from suppliers, weather, etc.
- This proposal is valid for 1 week for private clients, and 10 days for groups.
Cancellation Policy
Bookings can be cancelled within 48 hours AFTER REGISTRATION, with a full refund.
For cancellations made:
· Up to 60 days prior to departure, any payments above the deposit towards the trip will be refunded. The deposit is non-refundable.
· 60-30 days prior to departure, 50% of the total tour cost per person will be refunded.
· 29-0 days prior to departure, the client will incur 100% of the cost of the tour.
All cancellation requests must be made in writing.
Starting at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
Ending at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
A tour for wine lovers in an area where wine is produced since biblical times
What’s Included
A private, licensed, English speaking tour guide and transportation
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Fees for sites and activities listed
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Testimonials
“This was our third trip with via sabra and it was outstanding. We went with Aliza Green who is a cook and cookbook writer who provided us with lots of insights. Orit Levi our tour guide (third time) was excellent. Via Sabra makes every trip different so we did not feel as if we were repeating anything. We took our seven year old grandson who was well received and loved the trip. Via Sabra is caring and strives to accommodate any requests. We cannot recommend Via Sabra enough and we are looking forward to our next trip.”
Know before you go
Helpful articles from our Israel travel blog
