The Milk & Honey Distillery logo

The M&H Distillery

Region
  • Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
Awards
  • The M&H Distillery won this prestigious title at the World Whiskies Awards 2023 for their Elements Sherry Cask, Brand Innovator of the Year
Website
  • https://mh-distillery.com/
Phone Number
  • +97236320491
Address
  • HaThiya St 16, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel

Distillery interior with a flow chart on wall.

History of The M&H Distillery


M&H Distillery holds a special place in Israeli history, being the country’s first and largest single malt whisky distillery. Its journey began with a dream and a commitment to quality, evolving into a globally recognized brand.

From Dream to Distillery (2012-2013)

The story starts in 2012 when a group of entrepreneurs, including Gal Kalkshtein, Amit Dror, Simon Fried, and Roee and Naama Licht, envisioned establishing Israel’s first whisky distillery. They embarked on this ambitious project, meticulously planning and laying the groundwork for what would become M&H Distillery.

Building on Tradition with Innovation (2013-2015)

The year 2013 marked the official launch of M&H Distillery, setting up operations south of Tel Aviv. Founding this distillery wasn’t just about creating whisky; it was about honoring time-tested traditions while embracing innovation. The team, including Head Distiller Tomer Goren, collaborated with the world-renowned Dr. Jim Swan, a pioneer in hot climate distillation. 

Dr. Swan’s expertise proved invaluable, as he helped design the distillery’s layout, select ingredients, and develop the STR (Shave-Toast-Rechar) technique specifically suited to Israel’s hot climate. This technique accelerated the maturation process within the casks, allowing M&H to produce complex flavors despite its young age.

M&H Whiskies: A World of Flavor

M&H Distillery offers a variety of single malt whiskies, each with its unique character. The M&H Classic stands out as one of the first single malts produced in Israel. For those seeking a broader taste exploration, the M&H Elements Series caters to diverse palates. 

This series features expressions like the Sherry Cask, the Peated, and the Red Wine Cask, each matured in specially selected casks to impart distinct flavor profiles. M&H whiskies are not only delicious but also Kosher-certified, catering to a wider audience.

Beyond Production: A Distillery Experience

M&H Distillery isn’t just about production; it’s also about creating a unique visitor experience. The distillery boasts a visitor center that offers tours and tastings, allowing guests to delve into the art of whisky making and savor the fruits of M&H’s labor. This commitment to hospitality has helped M&H establish itself as a prominent player in Israel’s tourism scene.

A Global Success Story

M&H’s dedication to quality and innovation has paid off. Despite its young age, M&H has garnered international acclaim, winning awards like the World’s Best Single Malt at the World’s Whiskies Awards. With over 100,000 bottles sold annually and distribution across more than 40 countries, M&H has become a global ambassador for Israeli whisky. The distillery’s story continues to unfold, promising new expressions and a continued exploration of the art of whisky making.

Awards Won by The M&H Distillery

  1. World’s Best Single Malt Whisky: The M&H Distillery won this prestigious title at the World Whiskies Awards 2023 for their Elements Sherry Cask. This award is one of the highest honors in the global whisky industry.
  2. Craft Producer of the Year: Awarded at the Icons of Whisky 2023. This title recognizes M&H Distillery’s excellence among medium and small-sized distilleries.
  3. Brand Innovator of the Year: M&H Distillery was honored with this award for the second consecutive year, acknowledging their innovative use of Israel’s diverse climate zones to influence whisky aging.
  4. Distiller of the Year: Tomer Goren, the head distiller of M&H, was named Distiller of the Year in 2023. This is the first time an Israeli distiller has received this title.
  5. Highly Commended Awards:
    • Distillery Manager: Gal Kalkshtein, founder and CEO, received this commendation for his leadership and vision.
    • Brand Ambassador: Tal Chotiner was recognized for his efforts in expanding M&H’s global reach.
    • Visitor Attraction of the Year: M&H Distillery was highly commended for their engaging and insightful distillery tours.

Other Recent Achievements:

  • Frankfurt International Trophy 2022: M&H Distillery’s APEX Dead Sea whisky won a prestigious award at this competition.
  • San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022: M&H Distillery won two gold medals for the Elements Sherry and Elements Peated whiskies.

The M&H Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The M&H Distillery, also known as Milk & Honey Distillery, offers an enriching tour experience that provides visitors with a comprehensive look into the art and science of whisky-making in Israel. Located in Tel Aviv, this distillery is Israel’s first whisky distillery and is known for its innovative approach to whisky production, leveraging the country’s diverse climate zones.

Tour Experience:

  1. Guided Tours: Visitors can embark on guided tours that take them through the entire whisky production process. The tour includes a visit to the production area, where guests can see the copper stills in action and learn about the distillation process. Knowledgeable guides explain the journey from barley to bottle, detailing each step involved in creating their award-winning whiskies.
  2. Tasting Sessions: A highlight of the tour is the tasting session, where visitors can sample a variety of M&H’s single malt whiskies. These sessions offer a chance to taste whiskies at different stages of maturation and from different cask types, including their celebrated Elements Sherry Cask and APEX series.
  3. Interactive Experiences: The distillery offers interactive experiences such as straight-from-the-barrel tastings, where visitors can sample whisky directly from the cask. Other unique experiences include pairing whisky with chocolate or boutique cheeses, enhancing the tasting experience by complementing the flavors of the whisky.
  4. Educational Workshops: For those interested in deepening their knowledge, M&H Distillery conducts educational workshops. These workshops cover various topics, from the basics of whisky production to more advanced subjects like the influence of different climate zones on whisky aging.
  5. Visitor Center: The visitor center is designed to provide an immersive experience. It includes displays that detail the history and innovation behind the distillery, showcasing the various awards and accolades M&H has received. The center also features a retail shop where visitors can purchase M&H’s whiskies and other branded merchandise.

Additional Information:

– Booking: Tours and workshops can be booked in advance through the distillery’s website. The tours are available six days a week, accommodating visitors from around the world.

– Accessibility: The distillery is located at 16 HaThiya St., Tel-Aviv Jaffa, Israel. It is easily accessible and offers facilities for visitors with special needs.

– Unique Selling Points: One of the unique aspects of M&H Distillery is its use of Israel’s varied climate zones for aging whisky. The distillery utilizes five different climate zones, including the Dead Sea, which is the lowest place on earth and has extreme conditions that accelerate the maturation process, adding unique characteristics to the whisky.

Flask & Barrel Review of The M&H Distillery

The M&H Distillery tour is not just a visit; it’s an educational journey that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culture of whisky-making in Israel. Whether you are a whisky enthusiast or a casual visitor, the tour offers a memorable experience, blending tradition with innovation.

I’ve been to a lot of distilleries in my time, but my visit to The M&H Distillery in Tel Aviv was something truly special. As a whiskey collector, I’ve seen the traditional and the innovative, but M&H managed to blend both seamlessly. Here’s my take on the experience, and why I’m giving it a solid 4.7 out of 5.

First off, the tour was incredibly informative. The guides knew their stuff and were passionate about sharing the distillery’s story. M&H is Israel’s first whisky distillery, and they’ve done a fantastic job of incorporating the unique Israeli climate into their whisky-making process. Seeing the copper stills in action and learning about how they use different climate zones to age their whisky was fascinating.

One of the highlights for me was the tasting session. We got to try a range of their single malts, including the award-winning Elements Sherry Cask. The flavors were rich and complex, and it was clear that a lot of thought and care went into every bottle. The straight-from-the-barrel tasting was a unique touch that I haven’t experienced at many other distilleries. It added a personal and exclusive feel to the tour.

The interactive elements of the tour, like pairing whisky with chocolate and boutique cheeses, were a pleasant surprise. It made the whole experience more engaging and enjoyable. Plus, the visitor center was top-notch, with detailed displays and a retail shop where I could pick up some bottles to add to my collection.

If I had to nitpick, the only reason I’m not giving it a full 5 stars is that I wished the tour included a bit more on the historical aspects of whisky-making in Israel. However, this is a minor point compared to the overall excellence of the visit.

Overall, The M&H Distillery offers a unique and enriching experience that stands out even for a seasoned whiskey collector like myself. If you ever find yourself in Tel Aviv, it’s definitely worth a visit. Cheers to M&H for making waves in the whisky world!

What To Do Nearby The M&H Distillery

Jaffa Port (1.2 miles): Jaffa Port, also known as Old Jaffa, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Wander through its narrow alleys lined with art galleries, antique shops, and handicraft stores. Clock towers, mosques, and churches add to the visual appeal. Don’t miss the Jaffa Flea Market, a great place to find souvenirs and unique treasures.

Neve Tzedek (1.8 miles): Neve Tzedek is a trendy neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. Explore its charming streets lined with restored 19th-century homes, now housing art studios, cafes, and designer shops. This is a great place to relax and soak in the local Tel Aviv vibe.

Tel Aviv Museum of Art (2.2 miles): Tel Aviv Museum of Art is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. This renowned museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Israeli and international artists. Temporary exhibitions add to the variety.

Rothschild Boulevard (2.3 miles): Rothschild Boulevard, also known as “The Rothschild”, is Tel Aviv’s main artery. This tree-lined boulevard is a great place for a stroll or a bike ride. You’ll find Bauhaus architecture, upscale shops, cafes, and vibrant nightlife along the way.

Carmel Market (2.7 miles): The Carmel Market is a bustling marketplace overflowing with fresh produce, spices, local delicacies, and an electric atmosphere. Foodies will love browsing through the stalls overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, olives, and baked goods. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the local street food!

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near The M&H Distillery?

Taizu: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 23 Menachem Begin Road, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +972 3-522-5005.

M25: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Simtat HaCarmel, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. For reservations, you can contact them at +972 3-525-2828.

Ouzeria: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 44 Matalon St, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +972 3-533-0899.

What hotels are near The M&H Distillery?

The Vera Hotel: It has a rating of 4.9 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Lilienblum St 27, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +972 3-778-3800.

The Rothschild Hotel: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Rothschild Blvd 96, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. For reservations, you can contact them at +972 3-957-8888.

Hotel Montefiore: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Montefiore St 36, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +972 3-564-6100.