Kishor Winery: Where Wine Meets Inclusion and Empowerment

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Upper Western Galilee, Kishor Winery transcends the ordinary vineyard experience. Founded in 2010 within Kfar Kishorit, a village for people with special needs, Kishor offers a unique tapestry woven with delicious Kosher wines, a rich history, and a deeply inspiring mission.

Echoes of a Forgotten Legacy

The land upon which Kishor Winery stands whispers tales of a bygone era steeped in winemaking. Standing proudly amidst the vines are ancient winepresses, unearthed testaments to a thriving industry that flourished over a thousand years ago. Imagine a magnificent wine route snaking through these very mountains around 1000 AD, dotted with vineyards and bustling with activity. Sadly, with the departure of the Crusaders and the Islamic conquest, the vineyards disappeared, leaving the land silent for centuries. Not a single vine graced these slopes for over a thousand years.

But today, the Galilee became the Tuscany of Israel. It is the most beautiful wine region of the country, with mountains, plunging valleys, stony ridges, running streams and thick forests. In the summer of 2007, a remarkable decision breathed new life into the land around Kfar Kishorit. Inspired by this unearthed legacy and a desire to empower their village members, the residents of Kfar Kishorit made a bold choice: to revive the age-old tradition of winemaking. Led by Richard Davis, the Professions Manager, and Itay Lahat, the Oenologist and Wine Expert, the team planted their first grapevines in 2007 and had their first harvest in 2010.

For such young vineyards, the quality of the grapes is extraordinary. This is no doubt a result of the expertise of Mr. Davis and Mr. Lahat, the dedicated work of all the Kishor employees, but also of the particular terroir of the Western Galilee, which contributes significantly to the grapes' excellence.

More Than Just Grapes: Cultivating Purpose

Today, Kishor boasts over 60 acres of meticulously cared-for vineyards. But what truly sets them apart is the deep and meaningful involvement of the village members in the entire winemaking process. From the meticulous pruning of the vines to the critical harvest at the perfect moment, and all the way to bottling and labeling the finished product, Kishorit residents are active partners in bringing Kishor wines to life.

This involvement fosters a profound sense of belonging and purpose, while also providing valuable skill development opportunities. It transcends the act of winemaking, becoming a bridge that breaks down barriers and fosters understanding. Visitors from around the world are drawn to this unique connection, creating a beautiful tapestry of inclusion and empowerment.

A Perfect Terroir for Exceptional Wines

The vineyards bask in the unique climate of the Galilee, experiencing dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. This diurnal rhythm, coupled with the characteristically rocky terrain, creates the perfect environment for slow and even grape ripening. Imagine cool nights preserving the grapes' natural acidity, while warm days coax forth intense flavors and sugars. This slow maturation process allows the grapes to develop a depth of flavor and complexity that translates beautifully into the finished wines.

The Terra Rosa soil, rich in limestone deposits, provides the perfect mineral composition for flourishing grape varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Grenache, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Riesling. This diverse selection thrives in the Kishor vineyards, permitting the crafting of exceptional blended wines alongside single-varietal expressions like their award-winning Viognier. Each bottle is a testament to the dedication and skill that goes into Kishor's winemaking process.

Flagship Wine

Unveiling one of the winery's most celebrated offerings, the Kishor Viognier, is a revelation for the senses. It’s an exceptionally well-balanced pale-gold wine, boasting a luxuriously rich texture with a touch of buttery roundness. It’s a symphony of white peach, orange blossom, and a touch of ginger on the nose, and flavors of melon, pear, and honeyed orange peel mingle together, accented by a touch of citrus on the palate. Light notes of vanilla and cream add a layer of complexity, while a whisper of herbal and mineral character lends elegance to the overall profile. The finish is exceptionally smooth, lingering pleasantly and leaving you wanting more.

This medium-bodied Viognier is not simply a delightful solo experience. Alive with crisp, vibrant acidity, it pairs beautifully with roast chicken or poached salmon, allowing the flavors to complement each other perfectly. Creamy and buttery cheeses and freshly baked bread find an equally delightful companion in Kishor Viognier. A true crowd-pleaser, this wine is sure to impress all wine drinkers, from novices discovering the world of Viognier to connoisseurs seeking a truly exceptional expression of the grape.

A Diverse Selection for Discerning Palates

Beyond Viognier, Kishor Winery offers a diverse selection of wines to tantalize your taste buds:

One of the finest Kosher Rosés you'll ever encounter!
Kishor's GSM blend, a harmonious marriage of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, that boasts intense fruitiness with a hint of spice.
Kishor Tefen Red, a Bordeaux-style blend that features earthy, green, and smoky-meaty notes.
Refreshing and delightful Rieslings.
And much more!