Kosher Food and Drink

I’ve wanted to visit Dadah ever since a close friend brought a bottle of their unique Malbec and Barbera blend to my birthday celebration. Last Friday, I finally took a few hours off of work to explore, and it turned out to be one of the best winery experiences I’ve had in Israel. From the setting to the people to the wines — everything just flows.

The Journey to Dadah

It is about an hour drive to Dadah from Herzliya, northward along the coast toward Haifa. Dadah sits right down the road from its neighbor, Amphorae Winery. The two couldn’t be more different to me, because while Amphorae is a larger-scale, sophisticated commercial winery, a quick drive down an off-road leads you to the genuine, down-to-earth charm of Dadah.

Dadah’s Founding

Dadah Winery was founded in 2007 by the owner and winemaker, Jacky Hazan, together with his good friend Nehemiah Khatbi. They named the winery after Jacky’s grandmother, Ima Dadah (Mother Dadah), a Moroccan winemaker from Marrakesh who was given a special permit from the king of Morocco in the early 1900s to hone her craft in making “Kiddush Shabbat,” wine for Shabbat, and “mahia,” a beverage distilled from figs, dates, and grapes. The Hazan family made aliyah to Israel in 1963.

Visitor Center

The visitor center overlooks Makura Farm, with stunning views of nature along the slopes of Mount Carmel. On a sunny day, it’s the kind of place you just want to sit, relax, sunbathe, and let time pass.  

Inside the winery center is just as beautiful, featuring Moroccan-inspired decor which is colorful, vibrant, and full of warmth. I loved the energy of the space!

They do have a cheese plate, but honestly, bringing your own food is a great idea and totally allowed. Next time, I’m definitely coming prepared. (I was a bit jealous of the table next to us who had brought a full on feast…)

And yes … once you’re seated and enjoying the afternoon, they keep pouring. Just like where I come from, you never let your guest’s glass stay empty. (Tasting is VFM at ₪120 but just know when to stop!)

There’s no cell reception at the winery, which I surprisingly loved. It felt secluded and calm, like being cut off from the outside world in the best way.

The Terroir

Most vineyards are located in northern Israel, spanning two main terroirs:

• Basalt soils in the Golan Heights
• Limestone and tuff in the Upper Galilee

Kosher Certification

Dadah Winery is certified by Kosher Rabbinate of Carmel Coast Regional Council, Badatz Beit Yosef, and Kosher Lemehadrin.

Wines We Tasted

Dadah, Galilee, Red Dove, 2023 

A blend of seven grapes including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Shiraz, aged 14 months in French oak. Velvety red color, spicy aromas, fresh red fruit flavors. Smooth and very approachable. ABV 14.5%

Dadah,  Malbec–Barbera 2023

A truly unusual and memorable blend. A friend once brought this to my birthday party and I was pleasantly surprised — tasting it again confirmed why. Aromas of berries, red fruits, cherries. Fresh, robust, balanced, with slight tannins. As someone used to bold Argentinian Malbecs, I honestly didn’t know Malbec could show this much finesse. ABV 14.5%

Dadah,  Malbec–Barbera 2024

This hasn’t been officially launched yet, and the label is handwritten. Personally, this made our visit even more special. This type of experience is exactly why I love visiting a winery instead of just picking up a bottle at a store. You get to experience these personal, behind-the-scene moments. The 2024 Malbec Barbera was more tannic than the 2023 vintage.

Dadah, Galilee, Cabernet Merlot, 2023

A classic blend, well balanced with noticeable green notes. It was like a textbook and I really enjoyed. It felt like a winter essential. ABV 14%.

Dadah, Cabernet Franc–Syrah, 2023

Dark red with a burgundy hue. Aromas of black berries, spices, tobacco leaves, and vanilla. Quite tannic. ABV 14%

Dadah, Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 2022

Black berries, spices, tobacco, vanilla. Deep, long, profound finish. Dark, velvety burgundy color. Outstanding. My personal favorite.

Petit Verdot–Syrah 2023

I honestly don’t remember much… which kind of proves the point! As long as you’re sitting there enjoying the afternoon, they’ll keep pouring.

Winery Information

Address: Kerem Maharal (Drive further off-road after you pass Amphorae Winery.)

Kosher: Rabbinate of Carmel Coast Regional Council,
Badatz Beit Yosef, Kosher Lemehadrin

Visits: By appointment

Hours: Friday, 10:00–15:30

To book: WhatsApp or Call 050-5360333 

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Hyun Park is a WSET Level II wine enthusiast who grew up within South Korea’s vibrant culinary landscape. Her love for wine grew significantly while living in Germany, where she visited wineries in Pfalz, Mosel, Nahe, and Rheingau. Now living in Israel, she actively explores the country’s diverse wine regions and evolving wine culture. As a non-Jewish, non-Israeli observer, Hyun brings a fresh, international lens to Israel’s wine world. She also shares reviews of wines and boutique producers on Instagram at @hyunshinebites.