From Biblical to revival: Jordan’s desert wine makers

– ‘A passion, an art’ –

Jordan River produces 500,000 bottles of wine annually, 90 percent of which is sold domestically, said Haddad.

For now, very little is sent abroad.

“A few months ago, we sent a shipment to Australia. Another one is on its way to California,” he said, adding he also expects to export his wine soon to Paris.

The Jordan River wine has won 96 awards, while the Saint George has clinched 23 prizes.

“Wine is not just an industry, it’s a passion, an art,” said Alaa Mansur, production manager at the Haddad winery.