One of my new favorite Israeli wineries comes from a kibbutz not far from Jerusalem. Tzuba Winery is based at Kibbutz Tzuba in the Judean Hills. It’s first release was only from the 2005 vintage. While that vintage was quite enjoyable, this year’s releases (of the 2006 and 2007 vintages) are absolutely amazing and a great price.

Only available in Israel, Tzuba is just another hidden gem of unique and excellent wines only available to visitors in Israel. My favorite wine is the 2006 Tel Tzuba Sangiovese, a blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Nebbiolo grapes. Yes, those are Italian grapes but that makes sense since Israel is in the same Mediterranean region. Italy is closer to Israel than New York is to Florida, for example. Incidentally, for my Christian readers, reports are that a cave found on Kibbutz Tzuba was used by John the Baptist (Luke 1:80). I bet he enjoyed the great wine from Kibbutz Tzuba!

Tzuba’s winemaker Paul Dubb is from South Africa, and is all the winery’s grapes come from the kibbutz’s own vineyards.