The Central Mountains (also known as the Judean mountains or hills) are the main mountain ridge of Israel, lying north to South, with the Judean foothills to the west and the arid Syrian-African rift valley to the east. The northern part of the ridge consists of the Shomron (Samaria) Mountains, in the center are the Jerusalem Mountains, surrounding the ancient capital of Israel which they are named for and the southernmost are the Hebron Mountains.

The relatively high altitude of this area (700-1,000 meters above sea level), allow for a cool Mediterranean climate. Red and white Bordeaux varieties give excellent results here, so do Petite Sirah and Syrah. Several terroirs allow high quality Zinfandel, Gewürztraminer and even Pinot Noir.

The Samarian ridge with its high altitude environs which allow for slow and steady ripening thus producing wines with characteristics usually found in cooler climates, is enjoying a reawakening of wine making since the turn of this century. The region is mostly home to boutique wineries, whilst larger wineries, like Gush Etzion, can be found in the southern end of the ridge. Closer to the Capital are the high quality Castel Winery, and Tsuva.