Over One Million Grapevines Planted in Israel in 2025 as Cabernet Leads

The Ministry of Agriculture and the Wine Grape Board reported 1,091,788 new grapevine plantings in 2025, marking an 8% increase. Cabernet Sauvignon remains the top choice, accounting for 20% of all plantings.

Israel HayomAuthor: Hiyali Yaacobi-Hendelsman
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Over One Million Grapevines Planted in Israel in 2025 as Cabernet Leads
Photo: Israel Hayom / בציר ענבים בכרם בן זמרה | צילום: Getty Images

Over one million wine grapevines were planted in Israel in 2025. Cabernet Sauvignon continues to lead the industry with approximately 220,000 new plantings, representing one in every five new vines. It is followed by Shiraz, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Grenache.

These figures, compiled by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security alongside the Wine Grape Board, offer a preview of future retail offerings and reflect the evolving preferences of local consumers.

Planting Statistics and Varietal Trends

In 2025, a total of 1,091,788 wine grapevines were planted, marking an increase of approximately 8% compared to 2024.

Cabernet Sauvignon topped the list with 219,889 vines, accounting for about one-fifth of all plantings. It is followed by Shiraz with approximately 99,000 vines and Petit Verdot with about 89,000 vines.

Among white wine varieties, Sauvignon Blanc ranked fourth overall with over 87,000 vines, followed by Chardonnay with approximately 67,000 vines. Colombard (about 46,000 vines) and Chenin Blanc (about 25,000 vines) also maintained strong positions.

Emerging Varieties and Regional Mapping

The data also highlights emerging trends in the viticulture sector. In 2025, growers planted approximately 66,000 Grenache Noir vines, 50,000 Cabernet Franc vines, and 46,000 Durif vines. Among white varieties, Assyrtiko—a grape closely associated with Greece and the Mediterranean—showed notable growth with over 19,000 vines.

The official launch of Israel's new wine region map, initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Ministry of Health, and the Wine Grape Board, takes place today, September 6, 2026, at the agricultural complex in Rishon LeZion.

This new map divides the country into eight primary wine regions based on soil characteristics, climate, and topography, establishing a professional framework for growers, winemakers, and consumers alike.

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