Israeli Winemaker Thrives Producing Pinot Noir in Tasmania

Yael Sandler, an Israeli woman, is the head winemaker at Joseph Crombie Wines, one of Tasmania's largest wineries. Tasmania, located south of mainland Australia, offers a cool climate ideal for growing grape varietals like Pinot Noir, often called the 'holy grail' for wine enthusiasts. Sandler, 44, recently visited Israel for a guided tasting of her wines at Margalit Winery.

Sandler described Tasmania as a unique and beautiful wine region, comparing its scenery to New Zealand. The island experiences cold winters, with temperatures dropping to minus five degrees Celsius at night, and mild summers with daytime temperatures around 20-25 degrees Celsius. While wine has been produced in Tasmania since the mid-20th century, the industry is relatively young, with Joseph Crombie Wines established in 2007.

The winery produces one million bottles annually, with a focus on white wines and sparkling wines, though about a quarter of their production is red wine, including Pinot Noir. Sandler's Chardonnay is noted for its elegance and minerality, while her Pinot Noir is described as complex and aromatic, reminiscent of Burgundy.

Sandler, originally from Herzliya, developed her passion for wine while working as a waitress in Israel. She pursued studies in chemistry and wine, winning the Jordan Prize for Sommelier in 2009, which led to a prestigious internship at Gordon Ramsay's restaurant in London. This experience, initially planned for a week, extended to a year, immersing her in high-level wine service.

Her journey continued with postgraduate studies in winemaking in Australia, followed by internships at renowned wineries in Australia, South Africa, and California. After a stint at a winery in Israel that presented limitations due to its kosher status and her non-religious background, Sandler returned to Australia. She joined Joseph Crombie Wines, eventually becoming head winemaker for the 2025 vintage. Despite living her dream, she expresses a longing for Israel and intends to return to vote in elections.