As we approach spring’s most meaningful holidays—Easter and Passover—it’s the perfect time to reflect, celebrate, and of course, pour something special. For wine lovers seeking bottles that tell a deeper story, Israeli wines are having their moment. And if you haven’t yet explored them, now is the time to sip with purpose.

Over the past decade, Israeli wines have undergone a transformation—not just in terms of quality and winemaking, but in visibility and impact across the U.S. market. This isn’t just about kosher wine anymore. It’s about terroir-driven, Mediterranean-style wines that are impressing sommeliers, chefs, and curious drinkers alike. I had the pleasure of speaking with Jay Buchsbaum, the VP and Director of Wine Education at Royal Wine Corp about Israeli wines and their impact in the USA as well as what Sommelier’s like myself are doing to help their presence here in the United States.

A New Chapter in Israeli Winemaking

Israeli wine is no longer a niche category. Hundreds of non-kosher restaurants across the Tri-State area alone now feature Israeli wines on their lists. Why? Because they deliver. With bold Syrahs, graceful Bordeaux blends, indigenous varietals like Dabouki and Argaman, and exciting offerings from wineries like Carmel, Castel, Netofa, and Jezreel, Israeli wines are capturing attention with character, complexity, and a modern Mediterranean soul.

There’s a growing trend among restaurants to showcase “discovery wines”—bottles from regions other than the usual suspects like France, Italy, Spain, or California. Israeli wines fit this bill perfectly, offering both exceptional Sommelier, Sara Jimenez. quality and a story to share.

How Sommeliers Are Championing the Category

Sommeliers are in a unique position to introduce guests to these hidden gems. With high ratings and consistently impressive vintages, Israeli wines are easy for sommeliers to recommend with confidence—especially for adventurous, discerning guests looking for something new and meaningful.

“Personally I love Israeli wines and always have. While working as a Sommelier in New York, I featured many Israeli wines during my tasting events, and they were always so well received”. – Sara Jimenez, Sommelier. 

From the elegance of a Psagot Edom to the freshness of a Darom Cabernet, these wines allow pros to create standout moments and exciting pairings—without needing a traditional Israeli dish on the table.

Beyond Israeli Cuisine: Global Pairings that Work

The beauty of Israeli wines lies in their versatility. Yes, they shine with Israeli and Mediterranean fare—but their flavor profiles also complement a wide range of global cuisines. Think:

  • DAROM Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 with Easter lamb or rosemary-roasted chicken

  • Netofa Syrah with grilled meats or mushroom risotto

  • Castel C Blanc du Castel with creamy seafood pastas or spring salads

  • Jezreel Argaman with Korean BBQ or roasted eggplant with miso

You’ll find these wines standing up to rich, flavorful dishes as well as lighter fare, making them perfect for celebratory meals from Easter brunches to Passover Seders.

Israeli Wines for Passover & Easter

Whether you’re preparing a Seder plate or an Easter table, Israeli wines are a heartfelt and fitting addition. For Passover, opt for bold reds like Psagot Cabernet Sauvignon (see my other piece HERE) or DAROM to pair with brisket, roasted root vegetables, and herb-stuffed chicken. For Easter, a Mediterranean-style blend like Psagot Peak or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from the Jerusalem Hills complements glazed ham, grilled lamb, and spring vegetable dishes with finesse.

Photo via Israeli Wine Direct

The DAROM Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is particularly exciting this season—a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Sirah, and Syrah grown in the Southern Judean Hills near the Negev. With rich forest fruit aromas, a hint of spice, and a velvety finish, it’s the kind of red that offers both structure and approachability. It’s a beautiful match for Easter lamb or Passover roast chicken with herbs.

The Push Behind the Pour

Organizations like the Israel Wine Producers Association (IWPA), led by industry veteran Joshua Greenstein, who I had the pleasure of hosting an Israeli Wine tasting for a private residential community with in NYC a few years ago, are helping drive awareness through education, trade support, and events. Alongside major initiatives like the Kosher Wine Festival, these efforts are shining a spotlight on wineries that deserve global recognition. I love the Kosher Wine Festival and have attended some years and it’s a wonderful way to learn!

Why You Should Be Sipping Israeli Wines

  • Terroir: From the Galilee to the Negev, Israel’s diverse microclimates and ancient soils offer unmatched expressions of Mediterranean grapes.

  • Innovation: Israeli winemakers are embracing the latest techniques while honoring ancient traditions.

  • Discovery: These are wines with a story—about resilience, passion, and the power of land and legacy.

  • Quality: Across the board, the quality of Israeli wines today rivals any major region in the world.

Whether you’re hosting family for Easter brunch or gathering around a Passover table, Israeli wines offer a chance to sip something meaningful. Let your wine tell a story this season—a story of tradition, discovery, and bold flavor.

Photo via Seven Fifty Daily

Wine Picks to Try This Season:

  • DAROM Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 – Rich, desert-grown, and full of heart.

  • Psagot Edom –A Bordeaux-style blend with finesse and intensity.

  • Castel Grand Vin or C Blanc du Castel – Refined elegance from one of Israel’s top producers.

  • Netofa Domaine Red – Mediterranean warmth with balance and charm.

  • Jezreel Argaman – A celebration of indigenous Israeli grapes and bold character.

Pour with purpose this spring—and let every glass be a conversation starter.
Cheers to discovery, tradition, and a toast that connects the past, present, and future.