Guided tours in Vineyards

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."

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Kosher

Wine Tastings

Guided tours

As second generation children of immigrants from Eastern Europe, the land has a special meaning for us. That's why when an opportunity presented itself in the middle of life, we decided to leave the city, move to the village and plant a vineyard. First we focused on studying the soil and growing the grapes. We learned everywhere and from anyone who was willing to share his knowledge and experience with us. Faith in the path, passion for good wine, diligence and a strong desire to succeed led to the blossoming of a beautiful vineyard. In 2012 we decided to come full circle and establish a winery to produce quality boutique wines locally.

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