Assaf winery

Domaine du Castel is a family winery in the Judean mountains, near Jerusalem. We strive to make classic & elegenat wines from our unique terroir. Eli Ben Zaken, together with his three children, strive to make classic and elegant fine wines. The red wines, Grand Vin and Petit Castel, are both Bordeaux blends; aged in French oak barrels, they have an intense and complex bouquet. The palate is silky and rich with deep black fruit, spices and soft but assertive tannins. The finish is long, smooth and clean. The wines are unfined and unfiltered to fully preserve their flavors. They are well suited for aging and should reach their peak a few years after release. The "C" Blanc du Castel is a Chardonnay. The wine is aged sur lie for 12 months in the underground cellars. There is a frequent bâtonnage (stirring of the lees), a technique that enhances its complexity. The aroma is fruity with a hint of roasted almonds. The palate is rich and round with plenty of yellow tropical fruit and citrus. It is very well balanced and mouth coating. Domaine du Castel winery currently produces around 8000 cases annually. The Wine Advocate of Robert Parker, perhaps the most influential wine critics in the world, writes: "Domaine du Castel is one of Israel's most prestigious wineries, invariably on most short lists in the "best winery in Israel" debate … among the long established crown jewels."

In the west of the Hefer Valley, among fields, vineyards and orchards, near the Turtle Bridge on the Alexander River, the Vitkin Winery is located and next to it is the winery's visitor center. In the visitor center you can enjoy a wine tasting experience accompanied by explanations and a tour of the barrel room and the container room.

Elah Valley Wineries are one of the leading and advanced wineries in Israel and are an important landmark in everything related to hospitality and regional wine tourism. The winery has a visitor center where workshops, wine tastings and various events can be held.