Color: Deep, rich red
Aroma: Fruity, with notes of blueberry, plum, and cherry, layered with pepper and spice
Taste: Rich with fruit, complex spices, earthy undertones
Body: Full-bodied, firm tannins, good acidity, excellent balance
Finish: Zesty, crisp, satisfying, with a savory edge
About the Wine
Since its founding, Jezreel Valley Winery has aimed to craft wines that embody the Mediterranean spirit—both its terroir and its culture. This blend of Syrah and Carignan showcases Syrah’s dark berry fruit and peppery depth, balanced by Carignan’s red-berry brightness, baking spice, and earthy character. Each varietal was harvested, fermented, and aged separately in French oak barrels for 14 months before being artfully blended.
The result, as the winemaker describes, is “extremely fruity and rich, filled with red cherry and strawberry flavors that perfectly complement a sunny Israeli day.”
The 2023 Nahalal has already earned praise: Wine Enthusiast awarded it 92 points, calling it “a hug in a bottle”—a distinction marking it as excellent and highly recommended.
About the Winery
In biblical times, Nahalal was the name of a town in the territory of the Tribe of Zebulun, located in the fertile Jezreel Valley. The Hebrew word Nahalal means “pasture,” a fitting reflection of the land’s richness. By naming this wine Nahalal, Jezreel Valley Winery pays tribute to the early settlers who cultivated and nurtured this soil.
Jezreel Valley Winery was founded in 2011 by Jacob Ner-David and Yehuda Nahar on Kibbutz Hanaton, at the northern edge of the Jezreel Valley near the foothills of the Galilee, overlooking Nazareth.
In biblical times, this region was considered the agricultural heart of Israel, producing much of the country’s crops—including grapes for wine. The founders chose this location intentionally, believing that the land should once again take its rightful place as a center for Israeli winemaking. Their goal was to craft wines that reflected the country’s unique climate, character, and soul—so that someone halfway across the world could open a bottle and feel they were tasting Israel itself.
At Jezreel Valley Winery, traditional winemaking techniques are complemented by modern methods and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The vineyard has implemented practices that promote biodiversity, including planting trees, creating habitats for small animals, and allowing natural cover crops to grow. These efforts reduce chemical spraying, prevent soil erosion, and encourage deeper vine roots—all essential for producing high-quality, eco-friendly wines.
With an annual production of about 100,000 bottles, Jezreel Valley wines are sold internationally and featured in many fine restaurants. Notably, they are the only Israeli wines served at Michelin-starred restaurants in France.
About the Winemaker
Yehuda and Jacob met in 2010. Both were entrepreneurs seeking a project that expressed their passion for Israel and their deep connection to the land. After exploring various ideas, a winery emerged as the most natural path forward.
Yehuda studied winemaking at Tel-Hai College and trained under acclaimed winemaker Ari Earle. The first vintage, released in 2012, received outstanding reviews—and like a fine wine, the venture has only improved with time.
Beyond winemaking, Yehuda is also an accomplished musician. You can find his latest work at Yehuda Nahar Music
Where to Find
Jezreel Valley Winery’s wines are available at many fine wine shops and can also be ordered online at KosherWine.com. Please use this [special link] to credit Israel Wine Girl with your purchase.
We received our bottle as a gift from Jacob, to whom we are most grateful—and we’ll certainly continue to enjoy it as we make this coming Shabbat a true delight.
Israel Wine Girl 
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