Ambassadors and diplomats from numerous countries, including Austria, Australia, Japan, and Thailand, gathered on Thursday for the opening event of the 26th annual Wine Month hosted by the Matte Yehuda Regional Council. The event showcased the unique characteristics of Israel’s first wine appellation of origin, “Judea.”
The event drew dozens of ambassadors, diplomats, high-ranking officials, and hundreds of wine enthusiasts who enjoyed tastings from approximately 30 leading “Judea” wineries. Avishai Cohen, head of the Matte Yehuda Regional Council, welcomed the attendees, stating, “Thank you for being with us for a few moments of sanity in a country where crises are a daily reality.”
The “Judea” wine appellation of origin, officially recognized in 2020, marks Israel’s first designated wine region akin to those in Europe. The region encompasses about 1,500 hectares of vineyards, with wine bottles bearing a special label that attests to their unique origin.
Known for its boutique wineries, the Matte Yehuda region produces award-winning wines renowned worldwide. The area’s unique climate and exceptional terroir foster the cultivation of high-quality grapes, resulting in outstanding wines and rich local cuisine. The stories of the winery owners, who blend entrepreneurship, agriculture, and pioneering spirit, further enhance the region’s captivating wine experience.
Wine Month, spanning four weekends in June, features a variety of events, including professional tours, wine tastings, new wine launches, special local dishes, lectures, and workshops. This celebration provides an excellent opportunity to savor the best Israeli wines amid stunning scenery and exquisite cuisine.
Avishai Cohen highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The month of wine events in the Matte Yehuda Regional Council symbolizes the impressive work of the first and only wine appellation of origin in the country. The opening event, held in the presence of dozens of ambassadors and diplomats, showcased the unifying power of wine and culture. In June, Matte Yehuda will mark 60 years since its establishment—60 years of fruitful work and rich culture that turned a vision into reality. Over the years, Matte Yehuda has become the leading wine region in the country, thanks to the dedication, hard work, quality, and uncompromising creativity of all the winemakers and agriculturists of the council.”
