While Israel faces a complex security situation, the Israeli wine industry continues to face unprecedented challenges. Barkan Winery, one of the largest and leading wineries in Israel, finds itself at the forefront of this confrontation, when some of its vineyards are located in conflict zones.
Vintage under threat
The head winemaker of Barkan Winery, Olivier Fratty, describes the situation on the ground: "We have several plots that were damaged and burned. We have plots right on the border, where despite the difficulties we manage to get products out of there. We had injuries and falls in the vines." Despite this, he emphasizes the team's determination: "We have harvest limitations, but despite this we work. Instead of harvesting at night, we harvest during the day because of the situation and reduce the risk."
Dual challenges: Security and production
The security challenges join the usual challenges of managing a winery of this size. "Managing thousands of dunams of vineyards, hundreds of tanks and thousands of barrels is not an easy challenge," explains Fratty. "But it's also what allows us to take risks and try new things, even in such complex times."
Innovation in the shadow of war
Despite the situation, Barkan Winery continues to maintain the balance between tradition and innovation. The Platinum and W series continue to offer deep and complex wines, while the Beta series is an "experimental laboratory" for the winery. "This is the series where we can go wild," smiles the winemaker, "even in these difficult times."
Israeli wine on the holiday table
Ahead of the holidays, in the shadow of the security situation, the winemaker emphasizes the importance of wine in Israeli culture: "Wine is an integral part of the holiday table. This year, more than ever, it is important to choose Israeli wine. This is a way to express support for local agriculture and Israeli industry."
Barkan wines for Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot
In preparation for the Tishrei holidays, Barkan Winery offers a wide variety of wines suitable for the holiday table. The Platinum and W series, known for their quality, offer deep and complex wines that may be particularly suitable for festive holiday meals. These wines, produced from grapes from selected classes and aged in wooden barrels, offer a rich tasting experience.
Alongside these, the winery's beta series, known as Barkan's "experimental laboratory", may offer interesting options for those looking for a unique wine experience on the holiday. This series, produced in small quantities, allows the winery to try new varieties and special production methods.
In this challenging time, the choice of Israeli wine for the holiday table carries a special meaning. This is an opportunity to support the local wine industry and Israeli farmers, who continue their work despite the security challenges. Each bottle of Israeli wine on the holiday table represents not only the quality of the wine, but also the strength and determination of the entire industry.
A symbol of strength and continuity
Barkan Winery, like many others in the industry, finds itself in a unique position - not only as a wine producer, but also as a symbol of resilience and continuity. "We continue to produce quality wine, despite all the challenges," concludes the winemaker. "This is our way of showing that life goes on, and that our culture and tradition are stronger than any threat."
While the Israeli wine industry faces unprecedented challenges, the story of Barkan Winery demonstrates the determination and resourcefulness that characterize the entire industry. Wine, which has always been an integral part of Israeli culture, is now also becoming a symbol of resistance and hope in challenging times.