About Ramat Negev Winery

Ramat Negev Winery was founded in 1997 by Nira and Alon Tzdok of Moshav Kadesh Barnea, who set out to make fine wine from their own desert land. They planted the first 10 dunams of Cabernet Sauvignon in the Negev, a venture many experts of the day thought impossible, and in doing so became true pioneers of desert viticulture in Israel, helping open the way for what is now a recognised wine region. The quality of the wines has since borne out their vision.

The Wines

The vineyards grow in the soils of the Negev Highlands, shaped by extreme swings between day and night temperatures, low humidity and ancient geology. Those demanding conditions make the vines work harder and give grapes of concentrated flavour, while the estate model keeps the whole process under direct family oversight. The winery focuses on varieties that thrive in the desert, and each vintage reflects the identity of the Ramat Negev landscape, with the range refined further year on year.

Visiting the Winery

Ramat Negev invites guests to taste the wines being made in the Negev desert and to encounter one of the more inspiring stories in Israeli wine. Visitors can taste the estate range and learn about the terroir of the Highlands, all set against a dramatic desert landscape, the journey from those first 10 dunams to a recognised region very much part of the visit.

Information last updated: July 26, 2026. Please confirm hours and details directly with the winery before visiting.

Ramat Negev Winery

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