La Forêt Blanche: Building a Kosher Wine Brand Part 1

The Kosher Terroir

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In the sun-drenched highlands of Israel's ancient wine country, a remarkable story of passion, persistence, and purpose is unfolding. This episode takes you inside La Forêt Blanche Winery, where CEO Yaacov Bris has harnessed his unlikely background in e-commerce to revitalize and reimagine what Israeli kosher wine can be.
Yaacov's journey from selling products across 25 countries to building one of Israel's most exciting new wineries began with a simple appreciation for exceptional taste. When he first encountered winemaker Bruno's creations amid a sea of mediocre Israeli wines, something clicked – here was authenticity worth sharing with the world. Drawing from childhood memories of accompanying his grandfather (who pioneered kosher wine certification in France) through vineyards and barrel rooms, Yaacov recognized both quality and opportunity.
The name "La Forêt Blanche" itself reveals the winery's beautiful synthesis of heritage and innovation. After eight months of deliberation between traditional Jewish perspectives and modern marketing sensibilities, the team discovered their name directly translated the biblical "Yaar Levanon," referring to the Temple in Jerusalem. This connection runs deep – King David planted vineyards in these very Hebron Heights before becoming king of Israel, and these wines were later used in Temple service.
What distinguishes this winery isn't just clever branding but genuine terroir advantage. At elevations approaching 1,000 meters with Terra Rossa soil and a unique microclimate created by proximity to the Judean Desert, these vineyards produce wines of remarkable character. From 40-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon vines to experimental plantings of Rhône varietals, every decision reflects both respect for tradition and openness to innovation.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast curious about Israeli viticulture or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration in authentic storytelling, this conversation offers valuable insights into building something meaningful from the ground up. Listen now and discover why La Forêt Blanche has grown from 13,000 bottles to 75,000 in just a few years – with demand still far outpacing supply.

Contact Information

La Forêt Blanche
Yaacov Bris CEO

Address: Moshav Beit Yatir - Metzadot Yehuda

Phone number: 077-996-9898

Email: [email protected]

Hours: Sunday to Thursday 09:00 – 17:00
Friday: 09:00 – 13:00

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www.TheKosherTerroir.com
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Chapters

1. La Forêt Blanche: Building a Kosher Wine Brand Part 1 (00:00:00)

2. Welcome to the Kosher Terroir (00:00:09)

3. Introduction to La Forêt Blanche Winery (00:00:27)

4. The Story Behind the Winery Name (00:02:15)

5. Yaacov's Career Shift to Winemaking (00:12:30)

6. Brand Development and Marketing Strategy (00:30:49)

7. Winery Growth and Grape Sourcing (00:40:30)

8. International Markets and Future Goals (00:50:32)

9. The Unique Terroir of Hebron Heights (00:57:49)