Judean Hills, Palestine. The Cremisan monastery and winery was founded in 1885 by Fr. Antonio Belloni an Italian Salesian Monk. He opened the wine operation in an attempt to create a revenue source for the monastery’s orphanage. Cremisan is located on the northern slope of Mount El Ras just outside the city of Bethlehem and only 12k away from Jerusalem. The name Cremisan comes from the Arabic “Kerem Zan” meaning the Vineyard of Zan grapes, an indigenous Palestinian varietal. Cremisan was the first winery in the region to use indigenous Palestinian grapes, sparking both regional and international interest in Palestinian grapes. Hand picked in mid September. Staff fav! Cremisan’s Arak is the perfect combination between fresh, vibrant anise and the bouquet of Dabouki grape variety; it is distilled three times using a 1974 copper distillery to give a smooth, refreshing taste with a sweet finish and a tingling texture. Very easy to drink. 53% ABV