Numerous archaeological discoveries—such as ancient winepresses, grape-crushing installations, olive oil presses, and traditional water collection systems—attest to a continuous and sophisticated wine production dating back to the periods of the First and Second Temples.
The region is mentioned in several biblical sources and was known as the "Land of the Vine", thanks to its favorable climate, varied soils, and mountainous topography—factors that together create ideal conditions for producing wines of exceptional quality.

In recent decades, Mateh Yehuda has witnessed a renaissance of its local wine culture. New vineyards have been planted, dozens of wineries have been established, and the region has gained growing recognition as one of Israel’s leading wine areas—known not only for the quality of its wines, but also for the depth of its living agricultural heritage.

Today, the Judean wine region is home to around 40 wineries, located among agricultural villages, kibbutzim, rural settlements, and historic monasteries.
Each winery tells a unique story—rooted in the family, cultural, and geographical identity of its place.
Some are built on lands cultivated by generations of farmers; others rise on the ruins of ancient winepresses; and some continue living monastic or communal winemaking traditions, passed down as part of the region’s intangible cultural heritage.