Thinkers Distillery: A Shining Example of Israeli Distilling Ingenuity

When you think of Israeli artisanal food and drink, artisanal gin and vodka may not be the first things that spring to mind. But in the heart of Jerusalem — just steps from the lively Machane Yehuda Market — Thinkers Distillery is quietly rewriting the script. Founded in 2018 and opening in its current location in 2021, this distillery blends high-tech design, local terroir and a startup-mindset to create spirits that capture both place and innovation. 

But beyond geography, the distillery embraces Jerusalem’s paradoxes: ancient and modern; spiritual and secular; tradition and innovation. Its mission articulates this: “A distillery like no other … part research library, part chemistry lab, part advanced technology workshop… 100% passion.” 

What distinguishes Thinkers from a standard craft distillery is the degree of technological and material innovation infused into its process. In Jerusalem’s dry climate, they employ technology to condense humidity from the air and use that water as the “blending” water for spirits. They claim this gives the spirits a distinctive mouthfeel and flavour. 

Their lineup is technically ambitious. While gin and vodka may be more common, Thinkers also developed a bourbon-style spirit and have plans for rum/tequila. 

The design and branding go beyond bottle design: packaging includes Hebrew texts, references to Jewish Mysticism,  quotes from Pirkei Avot (“Who is wise? One who learns from every person”). 

In other words: they’re not just making spirits, they’re delivering on grand concepts and dreams.

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Thinkers offers 4 different spirits. First is their Jerusalem Dry Gin: A classic London-dry style but distilled in Jerusalem, with local sensibility. Their Israeli Sunset Gin: Incorporates rose petals and red fruits — a more playful, social-oriented gin. Their award-winning Vodka: Made with high-quality French soft red winter wheat, then blended with their water from air. 

And last but not least, their Dew of B’Dolah Bourbon: Perhaps the most fascinating. Although bourbon is traditionally American, Thinkers mashed in Ohio (using kosher Kansas corn) then shipped barrels across oceans and finally aged them at Haifa port for 3.5 years in open air. The name comes from the Kabbalistic concept of “bedolah” (perfect harmonious balance). 

Historically Israel has had wineries and a handful of distilleries, but the spirits scene was not known globally. Thinkers signals that Israel is forging a new path to compete in the premium, craft category. And by fusing the past

Thinkers looks to stand out in a crowded global spirits market.

Thinkers is a must try while in the Holy Land, whether it be in a cocktail or at their tasting experiences.