L’Chaim to Israeli Whiskey!

the Spirit of Israeli Innovation

I love a good whiskey — but honestly, I’m not a connoisseur. That said, I do know when something tastes exceptionally good.

As a filmmaker and photographer, I’m usually behind the camera, so I decided to put the gear down for a night and spend an evening with great people at the Etzion Tavern. Thank you to my friend Shahar for convincing me to go and doing the driving so I could really enjoy the evening!.

The event was hosted by Yosef Ortega and Yair Cohen, Co-Founders of Gush Etzion Brewstillery, at Tziona in the Etzion Tavern in Kfar Etzion. The real treat was the whisky tasting presented by David Zibell, founder and master distiller of Golani Distillery. Learning how to smell, identify fragrances, explore flavor profiles, and hearing David’s insights into the craft was genuinely inspiring.

Interesting to note, Patriarchs Whiskey, which I had the pleasure of tasting, is handcrafted using barley specially grown locally, here in the fields of Israel. Israeli distilleries are producing world-class whiskey — full stop.

Three Israeli Whiskeys and one Scotch. A tasters test!

Some of the Israeli Whiskeys on offer

I also had the chance to meet Joe Zander, founder of Holy Cacao, a true food artisan and master chocolatier. He literally traveled to South America to meet farmers and study the entire production process, and now produces award-winning chocolate in wild and wonderful flavors here is Israel. If you want a real taste experience, check out Holy Cacao!

R-L: David Zibell, Yosef Ortega and Yair Cohen, Me and Yosef Zander, Yosef Zander with his chocolates!

A great night, funky people, and a renewed appreciation for the passion and innovation happening here in Israel. Perhaps it’s time we embrace whisky made from our land crafted with Israeli love and care.

L’chaim!