Desert in a glass: In the Arava, dates are turned into excellent brandy and arak
Moshav Tsofar in the Arava has become an unexpected culinary destination. At the 'Arava' distillery, dates rejected for marketing are transformed into unique, high-quality spirits, including refined arak, gin, and brandy.
Moshav Tsofar, located about 130 kilometers north of Eilat, has quietly become a fascinating culinary destination in recent years. While the Central Arava is not Tel Aviv, Haifa, or even Eilat, you can find here the grill event complex of Chef Yariv Eitani from the 'Derech 90' delicatessen in nearby Tzukim, the excellent boutique winery 'Moa', the lovely vegetable garden of Ronit and Moti Elazari, and the 'Arava' distillery of Yonatan Garlini, which produces excellent arak, brandy, and gin from dates. Yes, dates.
Small alcohol distilleries are no longer a rarity in Israel. About 20 operate across the country, ranging from small shops like 'Arava' to local powerhouses like the 'Julius' distillery in Hanita. Garlini, the 34-year-old manager of 'Arava', describes the distillation process as an '80/20' endeavor: 80% attempts and 20% knowledge, talent, and time. At 'Arava', they rely on wild, natural yeast found on the dates to ferment the sugar, much like traditional winemaking.
After a six-week fermentation, the date wine is distilled twice, reaching 80% alcohol before being diluted to 37.5%. Garlini uses dates that were rejected for marketing but remain high-quality. The distillery currently produces 10,000 bottles annually, with a goal of reaching 30,000 for long-term stability.
To create distinct flavor profiles, Garlini infuses his spirits with spices and herbs. His arak features anise, while his gin is infused with juniper, cardamom, cinnamon, coriander, citrus peels, and local desert plants like fragrant star and jujube fruit. He also produces 'Akos' with licorice and 'Tamar', a date brandy aged in oak barrels.
While the Arava is still growing as a tourist hub, Garlini's products can be found in select delicatessens and wine bars from Haifa to Tel Aviv, as well as at the Six Senses hotel. His spirits are a true discovery for any enthusiast.
Selected 'Arava' Distillery Spirits:
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Arak — A very delicate and smooth spirit with prominent anise notes. Excellent neat or on the rocks. (100 NIS)
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Gin — A surprisingly self-sufficient spirit that doesn't require tonic to shine. (120 NIS)
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Date Brandy — A rich, deep, and serious drink that highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of the dates. (220 NIS)
