Kosher and sacremental wines are the two main types of wine produced in Israel, along with brandy. An increasing number of small scale wineries are making a name for themselves.
The most successful varieties planted include Chardonnay & Sauvignon Blanc for whites and Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot for reds.
The Mediterranean climate is brilliant for vine growth. Mild & warm in the winter with hot and dry summers. The baking summer sun is often too much for grapes to stand up to, even with pruning and drip irrigation to assist. However the heat is moderated by altitude in the Golan Heights and Galilee, allowing consistant, high quality wine to be produced.