Ancient Grapes to Modern Wine

Ancient Grapes to Modern Wine: A Quick Shephelah Tour

This half-day trip takes you through Israel's wine history in the beautiful Shephelah (Judean foothills). From ancient rock-carved presses to today's tasty wines — perfect for history lovers and wine fans!

First Stop: Ancient Wine Press (Gat) We visit a real biblical-era wine press carved into rock (2,000–3,000 years old, common in this area). Stand in the shallow basin where people stomped grapes with bare feet during harvest. Juice flowed into a lower vat. Imagine the songs, laughter, and fresh grape smell! Connects to Bible stories (like Neot Kdumim or Isaiah's vineyard or David in the Valley of Elah). Great spots: . Quiet, open-air, easy walk, amazing photos.

Second Stop: Modern Winery Tasting Short drive to a boutique winery in the Judean Hills/Shephelah. Israel's wine scene is booming here — great soil, sun, and breezes make excellent grapes. Favorites: Clos de Gat (authentic estate with ancient gat nearby), Flam, Tzora, Katlav, or Ella Valley. What you get:

• Walk the vineyards (if in season).

• See tanks and oak barrels.

• Relaxed tasting: 4–6 wines (crisp whites, bold reds, maybe rosé).

• Snacks: bread, cheese, olives, olive oil, or light lunch.

Why You'll Love It

• Links past and present: Feet on ancient stone... glass in hand today.

• Stunning hills, peaceful views, maybe Goliath's valley.

• Relaxed, fun, great for couples or small groups.

• 4–5 hours, private pickup from Tel Aviv/Jerusalem area.

Ready for this "Ancient to Glass" adventure?