Printed on every bottle crafted at Tzora Vineyards is a statement encapsulating the winery’s ethos that echoes the sentiments of Shaul Tchernichovsky: “Like man, wine is but the imprint of his native landscape.” This phrase is intricately linked with Ronnie James, the winery’s late founder, who passionately championed the importance of regionality, emphasizing that “wine is made in the vineyard, not in the winery.”

Tzora Vineyards’ winemaking journey commences in the picturesque Shoresh vineyard, nestled in the Jerusalem hills across various plots that span 170 dunams (42 acres). Variations in altitude and soil composition of the plots impact the grapes, amplifying the terroir’s influence. Eran Pick (MW), the winery’s head winemaker and CEO, skillfully crafts elegant, delectable wines exclusively from these vineyards. The wines bear names reflective of their origin: red and white “Judean Hills,” red and white “Shoresh,” and the flagship “Misty Hills.” Since 2017, Tzora Vineyards has proudly been a member of the Judean Hills Quartet, a collaborative effort among four prominent wineries to promote and brand the first region defined in Israel as an appellation, both nationally and internationally.

Tzora Red wine. Noam Preisman

Shira Tzidon notes, “The winery’s commitment extends beyond meticulous vineyard work, uncompromising grape quality, and the production of exceptional wines. It encompasses a dedication to regionalism, ensuring the consistent preservation of the vineyard’s character, growth conditions, and the unique weather patterns of each vintage. Currently, there is a great interest in establishing a regional map of appellations in Israel. Numerous wineries are focusing on vineyards within specific regions — a practice Tzora Vineyards has steadfastly embraced for years with notable success.”

Have a note you want to share about the Mosaic? Email us at [email protected].