Israel's reputation for technological innovation extends beyond medical and technological fields. The country has also made strides in food technology, agriculture, and even spirits. In fact, Milk & Honey Distillery just won the pinnacle of awards for spirits, something that rarely occurs to a company outside of Scotland. In March, at the World Drinks Awards in London, the Israeli-based company took home the "Best Single Malt in the World" award. Now, one notable venture called "Negave" is aiming to put Israel on the map for an Agave-based spirit known as Mezcal, which they believe will rival and surpass some of the world's best Tequila brands.
Best whiskey in the world is 'Made In Israel'
— Eli Dror (@edrormba) March 31, 2023
The most prestigious competition in the world crowned "Elements Sherry" of the Milk & Honey distillery as the "Best Single Malt in the World". #Israel #Whisky pic.twitter.com/MOqvBQvbiL
Mezcal is a broad category of spirits made from Agave, with Tequila being one of its popular subsets. Unlike Tequila, which can only be made from Blue Weber Agave and produced in a certain region in Mexico, Mezcal can be produced from various Agave varieties. Negave aims to craft an exceptional Agave spirit that embodies the essence of Israel's Negev Desert, which offers a unique topography and climate that sets it apart.
Negave Estates, the brainchild of David Niewood, David Polinsky, and Fitz Haney, has assembled a team of experts from across the globe, each bringing their expertise in Agave distillation, agricultural technology, research and development, and marketing and distribution of spirits. The team is led by master distiller Ana Maria Romero-Mena, along with renowned names such as Ana Valenzuela Zapata and Guy Haran.
🌎 AGAVE 100 internacionalizándose 🌎
— Agave 100 (@Agave100_mx) February 22, 2023
Visita de nuestras aliados de Negave Estates de Israel a casa ACEVES para el desarrollo de nuevos productos. pic.twitter.com/hPF1Ic3FsW
While the first batch of this Israeli spirit is still in the works and will take time to mature, significant progress has been made toward achieving Negave's ambitious goals. The company has secured the necessary land and commenced planting native Mexican Agave plants. However, the true magic lies in shaping the flavor profile of the final product, which the team hopes will be influenced by the unique environment of the Negev Desert.
El dÃa de ayer tuvimos un encuentro de negocios entre la empresa israelà Negave Estates y expertos del sector agavero y tequilero.
— RSM Consultores (@rsmconsultores_) November 19, 2022
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RSM | Innovar para prosperar. pic.twitter.com/lIMnlQdUGw
Master distiller Romero-Mena conducted extensive research in the Negev, overseeing the handling of the Blue Agave plants to ensure their successful adaptation to the harsh yet hospitable desert conditions. Through lab work, the DNA of the plant was studied and curated within an Israeli-based laboratory, paving the way for an anticipated harvest within the next five years.
The Yatir Forest🌳, southern #Israel 🇮🇱, was planted in the negev #Desert using unique #agriculture & #water #technology. This is the result: pic.twitter.com/4MwwRUF9Ib
— Aviv Bar Oz (@AvivBarOz) February 13, 2017
The journey of Negave is set to be a historical one if they accomplish their vision. As the project unfolds, The Judean will be closely following the developments of this innovative venture. With Israel's reputation for ingenuity and a dedicated team of experts, Negave has the potential to make its mark in the world of Mezcal, adding yet another feather to Israel's cap of achievements.
