Inside Carmel Winery: A Revealing Look at the Unique 2026 Harvest
Carmel Winery Chief Winemaker Yiftach Peretz reflects on the extended 2026 harvest, detailing unique climate conditions, standout white and red grape varieties, and exciting new facility expansions.
Every vintage brings a sense of anticipation to winemakers and growers, but the 2026 harvest introduced distinct challenges that required exceptional focus and adaptability across Israeli vineyards. Chief Winemaker Yiftach Peretz steered Carmel Winery through one of the industry's most fascinating seasons, balancing extended ripening cycles with meticulous vineyard management.
Reflecting on the unusual seasonal timeline, Peretz noted that the harvest unfolded over a remarkably prolonged period. While winemakers typically harvest white varieties first before transitioning to reds, the 2026 season saw whites lingering on the vines almost until the final weeks, mirroring broader agricultural shifts that also delayed seasonal stone fruits like cherries and apricots.
Climate Conditions and Standout Varieties
Favorable winter rainfall set a strong foundation for the vineyards, followed by a moderate spring and summer that avoided extreme heatwaves. These temperate conditions nurtured exceptional quality across multiple grape varieties, particularly in the northern Golan Heights and specialized microclimates.
"We recently wrapped up the harvest, and it was a notably different, extended year with ripening stretching over a long duration," Yiftach Peretz told local media. "Overall, we are very satisfied with the results and the dedication of our winemaking team."
The white wine portfolio benefited significantly from a new Dalton moshav Chenin Blanc plot displaying stellar qualities, alongside a premier northern Golan Riesling, striking Pinot Grigio, vibrant Colombard, and aromatic Sauvignon Blancs. On the red side, standout performers included two distinct Argaman selections, a Zichron Yaakov Cinsault rosé, impressive Marselan lots, a refined Dalton Merlot, and a headline Cabernet Sauvignon from the northern Golan Heights.
Facility Expansions and Future Plans
The 2026 season also marked the second year of full operations at Carmel's advanced Alon Tabor facility. The winery optimized its spacious layout, integrating a rigorously temperature-controlled barrel room and relocating historic and new vats and foudres from Zichron Yaakov. Meanwhile, the historic Zichron Yaakov site currently hosts the visitor center, with advanced planning underway to construct a dedicated boutique winery tailored for Carmel's premier tier.
