Nestled next to the Deir Rafat monastery, you'll find Moni Winery. This isn't just any winery; it's a kosher one managed by the Christian Artul family who hail from the town of Maghar. Now, Maghar is quite a place. Named after the Arabic term for "the caves," it has roots that go back to the Roman times. It later became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, with locals specializing in silk-spinning and farming. Fast forward to the 19th century, and you'd find a diverse community of Muslims, Christians, and Druze living there. Of course, diversity sometimes comes with tensions, like the Druze-Christian clashes in 2005. But that's Maghar for you—a living, breathing tapestry of Middle Eastern cultures and histories.

Now, back to Moni Winery. It's cozily situated in the caves of the monastery. Named "Moni" to honor Dr. Moni Artul, a family member who tragically passed away young, the winery was founded in 2001. Its location is stunning—the Judean Hills, overlooking the captivating Sorek Valley. Shkib Artul, the founding patriarch, was originally an olive trader. But the region's fertile land and unique terroir seduced him into planting vineyards.

What's the winery about? Quality, plain and simple. They produce both wine and olive oil and employ modern technologies for winemaking. The offerings are diverse—reds, whites, rosés, and even high-quality dessert wines. Some of these wines get the royal treatment, aged in wooden barrels housed in natural limestone caves, just perfect for aging.

Last but not least, the head winemaker, Shshon Ben Aharon, is a master of his craft. Appointed in 2014, he's among Israel's most respected winemakers, adding a signature touch to every bottle. But remember, Moni Winery isn't just about excellent grapes and top-notch wine. It's a family affair—the Artuls bring their Christian-Arab heritage from Galilee into the mix, adding yet another layer to the winery's unique charm.