Color: Deep red-purple
Aroma: Blackberry, black cherry, plum, pepper, clove
Flavor: Fruity with peppery spice, balanced acidity
Body: Medium to full
Finish: Long and lingering
About the Wine
Jezreel’s Alfa is a unique and compelling blend of Syrah (50%), Argaman (30%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (20%). While Syrah is typically blended with grapes like Grenache, Mourvèdre, and sometimes Cinsault or Cabernet, Alfa takes a bold turn by incorporating Argaman—a grape variety native to Israel.
Argaman is a distinctly Israeli varietal, and no one showcases it better than Jezreel Valley Winery. In their mission to craft wines that reflect Israel’s character and terroir, Jezreel planted two Argaman vineyards: one in Givat Nili, known for its old vines, and another near Zichron Ya’acov. Their dedication has paid off—Jezreel’s single-varietal Argaman received 96 points in 2022 from Decanter and 93 points from James Suckling for the 2019 vintage.
Argaman grapes yield a deeply pigmented purple wine with aromas of dark berries and cherries, complemented by subtle spice. The tannins are soft, giving the wine a smooth, velvety texture, while the bright acidity provides freshness and drinkability.
While Jezreel’s 100% Argaman currently retails for over $55 (and is worth every shekel), the Alfa blend is more accessibly priced at under $30—and it’s absolutely delicious.
About the Winery
Jezreel Valley Winery was founded in 2011 by Jacob Ner-David and Yehuda Nahar on Kibbutz Hanaton in the Lower Galilee. Jacob, a tech entrepreneur, and Yehuda, an experienced winemaker, joined forces with a vision: to produce modern, Mediterranean-style wines that reflect Israel’s climate, culture, and spirit. Their focus includes varietals like Syrah, Carignan, and of course, Argaman—Israel’s homegrown grape.
The winery is located in the fertile Jezreel Valley, just west of the Sea of Galilee—a region with deep agricultural roots. At their estate vineyards, Jezreel blends traditional techniques with forward-thinking innovation, particularly in sustainability. They’ve introduced biodiversity-enhancing practices such as planting native trees, supporting wildlife habitats, and encouraging natural ground cover. These measures reduce the need for chemical treatments, prevent erosion, and promote healthy, deep-rooted vines—key to crafting quality, eco-conscious wines.
Producing approximately 100,000 bottles annually, Jezreel’s wines are exported globally and featured in top restaurants. Notably, they are the only Israeli wines served at Michelin-starred restaurants in France.
About the Winemaker
Yehuda Nahar met Jacob Ner-David in 2010, shortly after both moved to Kibbutz Hanaton. Entrepreneurs with a shared passion for Israel and its land, they explored several ideas before realizing that a winery was the most fitting way to channel their vision.
Yehuda, trained in viticulture at Tel-Hai College and apprenticed under respected Israeli winemaker Ari Erle. Their debut vintage, released in 2012, was met with acclaim, and the winery’s reputation has only grown since.
Yehuda is also a talented musician. You can listen to his latest work on YouTube by searching Yehuda Nahar Music.
Where to Find It
We picked up our bottle of Jezreel Valley Winery’s 2023 Alfa at Joe Canal’s in Lawrenceville. It’s also available online at KosherWine.com. Please use this [special link] to support Israel Wine Girl with your purchase!
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