Margalit Winery

SHIMSHON REGION, ISRAEL

A Fusion of Terroir, Innovation, and Community

Founded in 1989 by Dr. Yair Margalit, a physical chemist with a passion for viticulture, Margalit Winery is celebrated for producing high-quality, small-batch wines.

Known for their commitment to premium red wines and meticulous vineyard management, the winery’s innovative production methods highlight the unique terroir of Israel.

Origins and Philosophy

Margalit Winery began as a family-run operation, initially a hobby before Dr. Margalit’s scientific background elevated the process. His blend of empirical research and traditional winemaking practices set the winery apart. Focused on quality over quantity, Margalit produces only a few thousand bottles annually, ensuring a high level of craftsmanship. This dedication has earned the winery a reputation as one of Israel’s finest.

Vineyard Locations and Terroir

In a bold and rare approach for Israel’s arid climate, Margalit practices dry farming — relying solely on winter rainwater once vines are established. Over a six-year period, irrigation is gradually reduced until the vines grow deep enough roots to sustain themselves naturally.

This method strengthens the vines, deepens soil connections, and results in small, concentrated grapes that yield wines of great complexity and balance. Every cluster is hand-harvested in small boxes to preserve fruit integrity. Each vine produces roughly two bottles of wine, a testament to Margalit’s dedication to excellence over volume.

Margalit Winery was founded on the belief that true wine quality begins in the vineyard. The winery owns and operates three estate vineyards — Kadita, Binyamina, and Zichron Yaakov — and maintains full control over every step of cultivation.

Margalit’s three Estate Vineyards:

  • Nestled on the slopes of Mount Meron in the Upper Galilee, Kadita Vineyard spans 27 dunams at an elevation of 800 meters. The volcanic basalt soil and cool mountain nights foster slow, even ripening, giving the wines their signature freshness and depth.

    Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Dourif.
    Highlights:

    • Co-fermentation of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon for the winery’s renowned Enigma wine.

    • Petit Verdot and Dourif are harvested later in the season to enhance the Special Reserve blends with dark color, firm tannins, and rich flavor.

  • Situated between Haifa and Tel Aviv, the 10-dunam Binyamina Vineyard lies close to the Mediterranean, where warm days meet cool coastal breezes. The red terra rossa soil — rich in clay and iron — is ideal for Cabernet Franc, producing vibrant and expressive fruit.

    • Variety: Cabernet Franc

    • Climate & Soil: Humid coastal air, moderate rainfall (400–500 mm), and iron-rich sandy clay.

    • Yield: 700–1000 kg per dunam.

    • Notable Practices: No cluster thinning or green harvesting — the vineyard’s natural vigor defines the wine’s character.

  • The youngest of the estate’s vineyards, Zichron Yaakov sits on the northern edge of the Hanadiv Valley, where gentle limestone slopes and centuries-old vineyard history converge. The site, known as “Hawarish” in ancient times, is famous for its exceptional terroir.

    • Varieties: Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Chardonnay, Riesling, and the unique Margalit Blanc — a natural mutation of Cabernet Franc developed in-house.

    • Yield: 800 kg (white) – 1000 kg (red) per dunam.

    • Soil: South-facing limestone slopes promoting excellent drainage and minerality.

Winemaking Techniques and Innovations

Margalit’s scientific background influences the winery’s analytical approach, particularly in monitoring fermentation and aging. Wines are aged in French oak barrels to develop complexity, and the winery avoids unnecessary additives, preserving the natural character of the grapes and terroir.

Global Recognition and Influence

Although Margalit produces limited quantities, its wines have earned international acclaim. Critics praise the winery’s ability to rival classic European regions while embracing Israel’s distinctive terroir, contributing to Israel’s growing reputation in the world of fine wines.

Margalit Winery's Featured Wine

Margalit Winery's Featured Wine

PARADIGMA GSM 2020

Syrah 22%, Grenache 36%, Mourvèdre 42%

Made out of a variety of grapes harvested in their Zichron Yaakov vineyard. A medium-full-bodied wine, it is made with a perfectionism that characterizes all of Margalit Winery’s creations. 

A flavor profile of anise, spices, berries,  and eucalyptus. It has a wonderfully soft and velvety texture in the mouth.

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