Tzuba Winery: Crushing it!

Iconic Tzova is a small kibbutz located next to an old Crusader fort called Belmont that was built in the 12th century.

By SETH J. FRANTZMAN
Updated: AUGUST 18, 2016 13:40
Tzuba Winery (photo credit: SETH J. FRANTZMAN)
Tzuba Winery
(photo credit: SETH J. FRANTZMAN)
An hour before sunset is a perfect time to see the vineyards of Tzuba Winery. Set in the majestic Jerusalem hills, framed by the forests, the lines of grapes stretch to the distance.
Paul Dubb, the winemaker here, planted these vines in 1996, and now he’s reaping the rewards of decades of hard work, showing off the improvements he’s made to the wine over the years.
Iconic Tzova is a small kibbutz located next to an old Crusader fort called Belmont that was built in the 12th century. After a short tour of the site, we settle in for a multicourse catered meal at the winery provided by chefs from the King David Hotel.
Dubb says he produces 60,000 bottles a year, with around 40 percent exported abroad. With tens of hectares set aside for Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Chardonnay, he says this altitude of 730 meters above sea level is ideal for a vineyard. “We chose each block [of land for vines] separately for what is perfect for this area, and we do it by hand, not with tractors.”
Dubb has been working on improving the Metzuda, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. He offers tastes of the 2011, 2012 and 2013 bottles. “We took what the French did in three generations and did it in 15 years.
Israelis have a vision,” he says, discussing the wine industry in general. Like the state, the wine industry is taking off, and Tzuba winery is symbolic of that process.
A visit to this luscious and simple winery is a must for a tour of the Jerusalem forest area. The nearby Belmont hotel provides rooms that overlook the rolling hills, and there is little better than cozying up with a nice bottle of wine while the sun sets and drinking away the last rays.