Jordan has a long tradition of wine-making dating as far back as the Byzantine era, and one that is engraved in Jordanian history and tradition.
Since National Wine Day is celebrated annually on May 25th, we want to offer a glimpse into a Jordanian wine experience by highlighting two of the most renowned wine producers in the kingdom: Jordan River Wines and Saint George Wines.
Jordan River Wines
Jordan River (JR) Wines was established by the Jordanian Haddad family in the 1950s. The Haddad vineyard is located in the northern Mafraq Plateau region of Jordan, and it was the first winery in Jordan, producing a variety of wines from one of the most distinctive and unique lands in the kingdom. In 2015, the company launched a new line of Jordan River Wines which includes wines from 2004 and aged under special circumstances in the desert cellar.
“We use the best grapes, grown under ideal circumstances, utilizing the methods of classic wine-making to produce exceptional wines,” says winemaker Nasri Haddad.
The Jordan River Wines vineyard is open to the public to visit through an array of experiences. Whether visitors wish to stroll around a Jordanian vineyard or try local wines at a restaurant or JR Wine's tasting room, they should certainly explore Jordanian wines during a trip to Jordan.
Here is a look into Jordan River Wines:
Saint George Wines by Zumot Winery
Also making waves in the Jordanian wine scene is Saint George, produced by the family-run Zumot Winery. Based in Madaba, Zumot Winery is known for its organic farming practices and sustainable approach to wine-making. The vineyard uses natural spring water for irrigation and avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, resulting in wines that truly reflect the purity of Jordan’s soil and climate.
Founded by Omar Zumot, the winery has earned international recognition for its dedication to quality and innovation. “Many people ask if we’ve always set out with ‘organic viticulture’ in mind,” says Zumot. “While our wines are organic, we simply grow wine with the true taste of Jordan at heart.” Visitors can sample Saint George wines at Zumot’s tasting room in Amman or enjoy them at restaurants across Jordan.
For those interested in a more natural and eco-conscious wine experience, Saint George Wines offer a distinctive and flavorful journey—one deeply rooted in respect for the environment. “Nature is the best engineer,” Omar Zumot recalls his father, Bulos Zumot, saying. “It has been taking care of vines for thousands of years.”
Here is a look into Saint George Wines: