LION’S GATE Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 Jerusalem Vineyard Winery

Honoring the brave soldiers of “Operation Rising Lion”

• Color: Deep red
• Aromas: Red fruits and warm spices
• Flavors: Red and black berries, plum, and vanilla
• Body: Medium
• Finish: Smooth, with light acidity

About the Wine:

Lion’s Gate Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is crafted from grapes grown in the Judean Hills, near Jerusalem, at elevations of 700–850 feet above sea level. The region’s warm days and cool nights contribute to the development of high-quality fruit, which was aged in French oak barrels for eight months.

This wine opens with a rich red hue and aromas of ripe fruit, accented by hints of vanilla and licorice. On the palate, it offers flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and black raspberry. With balanced acidity and structure, this wine leans toward medium-bodied, making it both versatile and approachable.

About the Winery:

Jerusalem Vineyard Winery is the only operational winery within the city limits of Jerusalem. It is part of an agricultural cooperative owned by the Guetta family.

Winemaking in Jerusalem dates back thousands of years and played a central role in both Jewish and Christian traditions. However, during Ottoman rule, wine production declined due to Islamic prohibitions against alcohol. It experienced a modest revival in the mid-19th century and gained further support under British rule after 1917—although most wineries were relocated outside the city.

Nearly a century later, Jerusalem Vineyard Winery has brought winemaking back to the capital. Its tasting room is located at the historic Montefiore Windmill in Mishkenot Sha’ananim, the first Jewish neighborhood built outside Jerusalem’s Old City walls.

Erected in 1857, the windmill served as a flour mill for early settlers. It was funded by British Jewish philanthropist Sir Moses Montefiore, who dedicated his life to advancing industry, education, and health in the Land of Israel. He made seven trips to the Holy Land, with his final visit at age 91.

Today, the Montefiore Windmill is a popular stop for visitors to Jerusalem. It features a small museum celebrating Sir Moses Montefiore’s legacy and houses the Jerusalem Vineyard Winery Visitor Center.

About the Winemaker:

Lior Lacser is the CEO and Head Winemaker at Jerusalem Vineyard Winery. A graduate of enology studies in Burgundy, he gained experience at top wineries in Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Western Australia before returning to Israel. With more than 20 years in the wine industry—including a tenure as Chief Winemaker at Carmel—Lacser brings a vineyard-first philosophy to his work, believing that exceptional wines begin in the vineyard.

Where to Find:

Jerusalem Vineyard wines are available online at https://www.kosherwine.com/Israelwinegirl. Please use this [special link] to credit Israel Wine Girl with your purchase.

The Lion’s Gate Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is also available at Total Wine stores.