Around the world, Israel is associated with the phrase the land of milk and honey. Blame Moses for the phrase, which originates in the Book of Exodus. Yes, it is true that the modern-day communists from China have purchased Israel’s largest milk cooperative.

In parallel fields, Israel has become a leading player in the international wine industry. One of my particular favourites is the Ella Valley Winery, located south of Jerusalem. The rose has a lasting flavor on the tongue.

However, in the past few years, the country has seen a major challenge to these traditional, biblical beverages. Whiskey, specifically Scottish malt whiskey, is a massively growing phenomenon, amongst many different sections of society. Why?

A few years ago, the British embassy lobbied the Ministry of Industry to reduce tariffs of such imports. As a result, sales shot up by 180% in 2014. In another move, some brave entrepreneurs set up a distillery north of Tel Aviv, called Milk and Honey (sic!), under the guidance of a Scottish taster. While the final product has yet to be released, a Moonshine version has received rave reviews.

Earlier this week, I attended the second annual “Whiskey Live TLV” event in the heart of Tel Aviv. Packed out! Young, and old, Jew and non-Jew, everyone was having a great time. Once inside, I made a direct line for one of my specials, a Balvenie 17 Year Old Double Wood. And my compliments to Chivas Regal for putting on an excellent and entertaining tasters’ session.

Israel is a country full of surprises. The international headlines may limit readers to stories about geopolitics or high-tech. In reality, this land with over five thousand years of history is replete with new and exciting offerings, reaching out across traditional boundaries.