In 1979, Alon and Nira Zadok, along with five friends, packed up and left their home in the Sharon area of Israel, venturing to Negev, the southwestern desert area of the country. Their goal was to form a settlement in this infertile region and prove that agriculture was possible. After much experimentation, their hard work was rewarded and today, the area is known as the "Produce Granary of Israel" with 60% of the country's agriculture being grown in the Negev. Throughout this venture, Alon focused much effort on grape growing for wine production, a love he gained from helping his father make wine in their home.

Today, Alon's initial effort has blossomed into the largest family-owned winery in the Negev, with both of Alon and Nira's sons at the helm. Their eldest Yogev, after studying wine at the University of Florence, is now head winemaker; Gilad, their youngest, is in charge of marketing. The family sustainably farms six hectares of vines grown on sandy, loess soils, offering Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Ramat Negev' Midbar Lavan White, an 80/20 blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon blanc, sits a pale yellow in the glass with green reflections. Fresh aromatics of tropical fruits are woven with notes of herbs and white flowers. The palate is pleasingly dry with flavors of white peach, pineapple and lemon complemented with a dazzling acidity. The finish is crisp and vibrant. Enjoy with grilled salmon over summer vegetables or sesame chicken with rice noodles.