Page 31 - Holyland Magazine - 2025 Edition
P. 31

Tushia Winery. Photo: Gal Tushia.
                                                   On right: Nicole Hod Stroh, CEO of the Merage
                                                   Foundation Israel. Photo: Javier Schejtman

David Merage, founder of the Merage                                                               Today, Negev wines return to Spain not only
Foundation Israel, reflected on the deep                                                          as a product but as a symbol of resilience
significance of their work: "Reviving                                                             and renewal, rekindling a connection lost to
winemaking in the Negev is not just about                                                         history.
producing fine wine; it is about transforming
challenges into opportunities." The desert,
once seen as an obstacle, is now a place of
innovation and prosperity. This is a testament
to the pioneering spirit that defines Israel, and
we are honored to contribute to this journey."

The journey of Negev wines to Spain was
more than a commercial venture; it was a
homecoming of sorts. Centuries ago, the
Jewish communities of the Iberian Peninsula
played a vital role in Europe’s wine culture
before the Inquisition forced them into exile.

                                                   Mevorach Vineyard. Photo: David Silverman      The significance of this achievement
                                                                                                  goes beyond winemaking. The Merage
                                                                                                  Foundation Israel’s leadership in this initiative
                                                                                                  has proven that with vision and dedication,
                                                                                                  even the harshest landscapes can yield
                                                                                                  abundance. This project is not merely about
                                                                                                  producing fine wines; it is about rewriting
                                                                                                  the narrative of the desert itself. What was
                                                                                                  once seen as a place of exile and desolation
                                                                                                  has become a land of opportunity and
                                                                                                  excellence. Biblical references to wine are
                                                                                                  deeply interwoven with Jewish tradition,
                                                                                                  from the vineyards of Noah to the blessings
                                                                                                  of the Sabbath. The Negev, long associated
                                                                                                  with biblical prophecy, is fulfilling its ancient
                                                                                                  promise—turning the wilderness into fertile
                                                                                                  land. The vineyards of the Negev today stand
                                                                                                  as a testament to human ingenuity and
                                                                                                  perseverance, a bridge between the past and
                                                                                                  the future. The meticulous work of modern
                                                                                                  vintners, combined with the rich history of
                                                                                                  the region, has created wines that carry both
                                                                                                  tradition and innovation in every sip.
                                                                                                  As glasses were raised in Madrid to celebrate
                                                                                                  this extraordinary journey, one thing was
                                                                                                  clear: the story of Negev wines is just
                                                                                                  beginning. Every uncorked bottle carries
                                                                                                  whispers of an ancient past and a future
                                                                                                  where the desert flourishes with wine once
                                                                                                  more. Yet beyond global recognition, the
                                                                                                  true essence of this movement remains in the
                                                                                                  Negev itself, where visitors can stroll through
                                                                                                  vineyards, meet passionate winemakers, and
                                                                                                  experience an unparalleled fusion of history,
                                                                                                  faith, and flavor. The Madrid event marked
                                                                                                  the start of Negev wines’ global expansion,
                                                                                                  proving that even the most arid landscapes

                                                                                                  ✦can produce greatness.

                                                                                                  To discover the magic of Negev wines and plan
                                                                                                  your visit to this extraordinary desert wine region,
                                                                                                  visit: www.negevwine.co.il

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