What It Is About
Vitkin Winery, founded by Doron Belogolovsky and Assaf Paz, has been a trailblazer in Israel’s wine industry, breaking away from traditional grape varieties and embracing innovation. Established in 2001, the winery has focused on obscure grape strains, significantly influencing other Israeli winemakers to embark on similar journeys of exploration and diversity.
Why It Matters
This bold step towards adopting lesser-known Mediterranean grape varieties has not only broadened the spectrum of Israeli wines but revitalized the industry in favor of wines that best express Israel’s unique terroir. By pioneering the cultivation of grapes such as Carignan and Petite Sirah, Vitkin Winery has transformed the perception of what Israeli wines can achieve.
The Big Picture
The Vitkin Winery story is deeply linked to Israel’s broader historical journey with winemaking. Originally home to famous Cabernet and Merlot varieties with wineries like Carmel and Golan Heights, Vitkin integrated new levels of creativity and diversity into its production processes. Now a prominent family-run business, Vitkin employs a meticulous approach to winemaking, combining tradition with modern craftsmanship.
Flashback
Since its inception, Vitkin Winery has placed emphasis on underappreciated grape varieties, pursuing quality and a distinctive Israeli character. The founders’ commitment to this course has laid the foundation for carving a new niche in the Israeli wine market—one that captivates wine lovers with blends that reflect both character and heritage.
The Human Factor
The winery is championed by passionate and skilled individuals within the ranks of its founding family. Sharona Belogolovsky, an accomplished CEO with excellent managerial qualities, paired with the talented winemaker Assaf Paz, has ensured Vitkin Winery stands out for both innovation and quality.
Looking Ahead
As further pathways open, Vitkin Winery remains pivotal in guiding Israeli wines into the global spotlight, presenting rich, distinctive flavors that pay homage to the very roots of Israeli viticulture. Their future promises continued success owing to adherence to a vision that marries tradition with ingenuity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.