Israel might not be the first place you think of for whisky, but Milk & Honey Distillery in Tel Aviv is changing that with their bold new Apex Terroir Series. This four-bottle collection is a game-changer, showing off how Israel’s wildly different climates can shape a whisky’s flavor in ways you’d never expect. From the scorching lows of the Dead Sea to the cool pine forests of the Jerusalem Mountains, each bottle tells a story of place, patience, and a whole lot of innovation.
A Whisky Shaped by Israel’s Unique Landscape
The idea behind the Apex Terroir Series is simple but groundbreaking: take the same single malt whisky and age it in four distinct corners of Israel to see how the environment changes the final product. Israel’s geography is like a playground for whisky makers. In a country smaller than New Jersey, you’ve got everything from blistering deserts to breezy coastal plains, all within a few hours’ drive. This diversity, combined with the distillery’s willingness to push boundaries, makes for a whisky experience that’s unlike anything else out there.
The late Dr. Jim Swan, a legend in the whisky world, saw Israel’s potential early on. He called it a “playground for whisky innovation,” and Milk & Honey took that vision and ran with it. The result is a series that’s not just about making good whisky—it’s about showing how climate, elevation, and landscape can transform a spirit into something extraordinary. “This series is the culmination of years of research, patience, and passion,” says Tal Chotiner, the distillery’s global sales vice-president. “It’s who we are—bold, experimental, and ready to shake up the whisky industry.”
Four Bottles, Four Climates, Four Stories
Each of the four whiskies in the Apex Terroir Series is aged in a different part of Israel, and the results are as varied as the landscapes themselves. Here’s a closer look at what makes each one stand out.
Dead Sea: A Whisky Forged in Extreme Heat
Image credit: M&H Distillery
Imagine aging whisky at the lowest point on Earth, 351 meters below sea level, where summer temperatures can hit 50°C (122°F). That’s the Dead Sea expression, bottled at a hefty 57.4% ABV. The harsh, arid climate here speeds up the aging process, pulling intense flavors from the casks. According to head distiller Tomer Goren, this whisky is “rich in minerality and spice with a well-rounded sweetness.” It’s a bold, complex dram that captures the rugged beauty of the Dead Sea, offering a taste that’s both powerful and surprisingly smooth. Think spicy warmth with a touch of sweet depth—a whisky that doesn’t mess around.
Jerusalem Mountains: Cool, Crisp, and Herbal
Image credit: M&H Distillery
Head up to 576 meters above sea level, and you’re in the cool pine forests of the Jerusalem Mountains. This whisky, bottled at 55.4% ABV, takes its time maturing in the chilly, high-altitude air. The slower aging process gives it a lighter, fresher profile. Goren describes it as having “green, herbal notes and a crisp clarity” that mirrors the forested hills where it’s aged. If you’re into whiskies that feel clean and vibrant, with hints of fresh herbs and a touch of oak, this one’s for you. It’s like a breath of mountain air in a glass.
Negev Desert: Fruit and Fire in the Arid Hills
Image credit: M&H Distillery
In the Negev Desert, at 563 meters above sea level, the days are scorching, and the nights can dip near freezing. These wild temperature swings make the casks expand and contract daily, creating a whisky that’s delicate yet packed with flavor. Bottled at 54.2% ABV, the Negev Desert expression is “fruit-forward with a dry finish,” says Goren. Expect bright, juicy notes—think ripe apples or citrus—balanced by a subtle dryness that’s unique to this arid region. It’s a whisky that feels alive, with a character that reflects the desert’s stark beauty.
Sea of Galilee: Bold and Layered by the Water’s Edge
Image credit: M&H Distillery
Aged 154 meters below sea level where the Sea of Galilee meets the Jordan River, this whisky (56.2% ABV) gets a boost from grape-based marc casks, which add a fruity richness. The area’s humid, push-pull climate—warm days and cooler nights—creates a bold, layered spirit. Goren calls it a “fruit-forward whisky with rich, concentrated warmth and layered complexity.” You’ll get sweet, spicy notes that dance between ripe fruit and warm spices, making this one a standout for those who love a whisky with depth and personality.
Why This Series Matters
What sets the Apex Terroir Series apart isn’t just the unique climates—it’s the way Milk & Honey uses them to challenge what whisky can be. Most whisky regions, like Scotland or Kentucky, rely on consistent climates to produce their signature styles. Israel’s approach is different. By embracing the country’s extreme geographic diversity, Milk & Honey is proving that terroir—the influence of place—matters just as much in whisky as it does in wine. Each bottle in this series is a testament to that idea, offering flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
The distillery’s commitment to quality is clear. Every expression is crafted with care, using traditional methods but with a fearless twist. The casks are chosen for their ability to highlight each region’s unique traits, and the results speak for themselves. Whether it’s the mineral-heavy punch of the Dead Sea or the crisp freshness of the Jerusalem Mountains, these whiskies are as much about the land as they are about the spirit.
Availability and Price
The Apex Terroir Series is already making waves in Europe, with bottles available in Germany, Poland, and Austria as of June 2025. France, the Netherlands, and Belgium are next in line for mid-July, and the UK will get its chance in September. Each bottle carries a suggested retail price of about $165 USD, which puts it in the premium whisky range but feels like a steal for the craftsmanship and innovation packed into every sip.
A New Chapter for Whisky Lovers
For anyone who loves whisky and isn’t afraid to try something new, the Milk & Honey Apex Terroir Series is a must. It’s not just about drinking a good dram—it’s about experiencing a place through every sip. From the intense heat of the Dead Sea to the cool forests of the Jerusalem Mountains, these whiskies capture the soul of Israel in a way that’s bold, unique, and unforgettable. Milk & Honey is putting Israel on the whisky map, and this series is proof that they’re here to stay.
So, next time you’re looking for a bottle that tells a story, grab one of these. Crack it open, pour a glass, and let Israel’s landscapes take you on a journey. You won’t be disappointed.
