Bazelet HaGolan Winery Travel Guide

### The Story of Bazelet HaGolanBazelet HaGolan Winery was established in 1998 by Yoav Levy, following years of dedicated home winemaking. The winery's name and logo reference an ancient Greek coin depicting Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, embodying the spirit of celebration and life that defines the establishment. Located in Moshav Kidmat Zvi on the Golan Heights, the winery sits beside a magical water spring and grove, with commanding views of the Sea of Galilee and Israel's northern region. This picturesque setting creates an atmosphere of tranquility and natural beauty that enhances the wine-tasting experience.### The Terroir and Production PhilosophyThe secret to Bazelet HaGolan's exceptional wines lies in the fertile and rich basalt soil unique to the region, combined with the area's distinctive climatic conditions and carefully selected vineyard locations. The winery's vineyards spread across approximately 25 acres at varying elevations, ranging from 500 meters to over 1,000 meters above sea level. This elevation diversity allows each vineyard to develop unique characteristics that are skillfully blended to create harmonious wine selections. The winemaking process emphasizes natural production methods, with wines kept unfiltered in French and American oak barrels after fermentation to improve taste and aroma. Yoav Levy personally monitors the vineyards throughout the year, ensuring grapes are cultivated according to strict specifications developed through years of expertise.### Wine Selection and ProductionBazelet HaGolan produces approximately 80,000 bottles annually from noble grape varieties, primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. The winery is particularly renowned for its red wines, with visitors and critics consistently praising the quality and complexity of the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot selections. The newest vineyard, which began production in 2014, encompasses 50 dunams at 750 meters elevation in the east-central Golan Heights region. The winery's commitment to quality over quantity, combined with meticulous production processes, has established Bazelet HaGolan as a respected producer in Israel's wine industry.### The Visitor ExperienceThe winery's visitor center, located at the main facility in Kidmat Zvi, welcomes guests to explore the connection between the basalt soil and the wines produced. Visitors can observe the wine production process, experience the unique aromas of fermentation and aging, and participate in guided tastings of the winery's selections. The tasting experience typically includes multiple wines paired with informative descriptions from knowledgeable staff. The winery accommodates individual visitors, couples, and groups, making it suitable for casual visits, special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries, and organized corporate events. The peaceful surroundings and clear mountain air create an ideal environment for enjoying fine wine.### Historical SignificanceBazelet HaGolan honors Israel's military history through its Vineyard 188 series, named in tribute to the 188th Armored Brigade of the Israeli Defense Forces. This vineyard is located near Tel Fares, the site of a significant battle during the 1973 Yom Kippur War where the brigade fought with valor. This symbolic connection between the land, history, and wine production adds cultural depth to the winery's identity and resonates with visitors interested in understanding the region's heritage.