Bashan Winery holds a unique distinction in the Israeli wine world: it is the only fully certified kosher and organic winery in the country, and one of the very few such operations in the world. Founded by Emmanuel Dassa and Uri Rapp, Bashan is a pioneering estate that has committed to producing wines using entirely organic and biodynamic principles — no synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilisers in the vineyard, and organic practices throughout the winery from fermentation to bottling. The winery takes its name from the biblical region of Bashan, the fertile highland plateau east of the Jordan River that the Israelites conquered under Moses and Joshua.

The Golan Heights — of which Moshav Avnei Eitan forms part — corresponds broadly to the ancient Bashan, and the name thus carries both geographical precision and a deep historical resonance. Moshav Avnei Eitan sits on the central Golan plateau at an elevation of approximately 900 metres above sea level, surrounded by the basaltic landscape that gives Golan wines their distinctive volcanic mineral character. The soils here are deep, volcanic, and well-drained — the product of ancient lava flows from the region’s many extinct volcanoes.

The climate is Continental-Mediterranean: cold winters with heavy snowfall, warm summers tempered by the altitude, and significant rainfall that makes irrigation largely unnecessary. Bashan Winery currently cultivates Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vineyards of approximately 2.5 acres each, producing wines under the Eitan label (varietal Cabernet and Merlot) and the Nave blend. The organic certification extends to every aspect of production, making Bashan wines a rare and compelling choice for those who care about both quality and environmental responsibility.

The winery is small and intimate, and visits are typically arranged by appointment. The opportunity to taste certified organic, kosher Golan Heights wines in this spectacular volcanic landscape is a genuinely unique experience. For visiting hours, wine releases, and tour arrangements, contact the winery directly.

Bashan Winery

Login

Sign up and bookmark your favorite place!