Cremisan Winery is one of the most historically significant wine producers in the Holy Land — a winery producing wine continuously since 1885, making it one of the oldest operating wineries in the region. Founded by the Salesian order of Don Bosco, the winery operates at the Cremisan Monastery on the outskirts of Beit Jala, a Palestinian Christian town five kilometres from Bethlehem. The monastery occupies a hilltop at 850 metres above sea level, surrounded by ancient terraced vineyards cultivated since long before the Salesian fathers arrived.

The story begins earlier than 1885: in 1863, Father Antonio Belloni established an agricultural school on these lands to support orphaned children, and wine production was part of the programme from the beginning. For over a century, Cremisan wines have supplied churches, monasteries, and Christian communities throughout the Holy Land. What makes Cremisan wines genuinely distinctive is their use of indigenous Palestinian grape varieties — cultivars grown in this landscape for thousands of years whose genetic heritage is unique.

The flagship varieties include Dabouki (white), Hamdani and Jandali (whites), and Baladi (red) — ancient grapes whose flavours and aromas are unlike anything produced elsewhere. The winery also cultivates international varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, and Petit Verdot. A copper distillery established in 1974 produces rich brandy aged for up to 35 years in oak, and a distinctive Arak made from Dabouki grapes has been produced since 2020.

Cremisan’s visitor experience includes guided tours of the ancient cellars, wine tastings, and panoramic views over Beit Jala and Bethlehem. The wine shop is open Monday to Friday 8:00-15:30 and Saturday 8:00-11:30. Tastings are available with advance reservation and include four wines paired with pretzels and local dishes.

Cremisan Winery

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