ne·gA·Vay

The Negev Desert & the purest agave

Joined in Spirit

Negave Estates emerged from the shared vision of six close friends united by the allure of the Negev desert.

We set out to produce a premium agave-based spirit that captures the spirit of this mystical landscape, from the ground to glass.

We’re expanding on the modern region’s current wine culture and on the land’s suitability for growing agave by creating an artisanal spirit with an identity all its own.

Inspired by our connection to this mystical landscape and its effect on our dreams, aspirations, and friendships, we are honored to share this spirt with you. Here’s to a magical journey.

Meet the Founders

David Niewood

Is the visionary and driving force behind Negave Estates. Operating out of Israel, David is solely focused on turning the Negave dream into a successful reality. Coming from an accomplished 30-year career in investment management, David leverages his financial and business experience to deliver on Negave’s vision.

Yitzhak Carmy

Owns and operates Carmy Exports, one of Israel’s largest independent food and vegetable grower and distributors. He manages the agave farm and estate for Negave.

Ambassador S. Fitzgerald Haney (ret)

Served as U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica from 2015-2017. Fitz has lived and worked on five continents, including Mexico, for various multinational corporations, and communicates effectively in four languages. His experience in strategy, marketing, and communications is helping Negave manage operations across Israel, the U.S., and Mexico.

William Kuluva

Long-time entrepreneur who currently owns and operates Sterling Gaming, a billiards and game room products company that has manufactured custom products for distinguished brands. Bill brings his business acumen and manufacturing and distribution expertise to Negave Estates.

Amanda Parness

Works with privately held companies to help them grow and scale effectively. As a former private equity investor, Amanda helps with Negave’s intersection of the strategy, operations, and finances, including leading the branding and go-to-market initiative.

David Polinsky

Attorney and entrepreneur, and serves as CFO of a public biotech company. David founded the first online legal consumer site in the early days of the internet and has since founded multiple consumer-focused, tech, and biotech companies. He brings his passion for brand-building, coupled with legal and finance expertise, to Negave Estates.

RICH ROBIN

Rich joined NAS Insurance in 1994 with the mission to develop and place innovative products that make good business sense and are easily delivered. Under Rich’s leadership, NAS grew to over 200 employees and greater than $200mil in premiums written. Rich served as CEO of NAS beginning in 2009 and became President of the Tokio Marine HCC Cyber and Professional Lines after NAS was acquired in April 2019. Rich held this position until January, 2022. Rich currently advises insurtech companies on various strategies. Rich enjoys surfing, mountain biking and sipping agave-based spirits.

Advisory Board

Ana Maria Romero Mena

Negave Master Distiller, World Renowned Maestra Tequilera

Michael Ward

Negave Commercial Advisor, Diageo N.A. Head of Strategy and Transformation

Omer Malchin

Negave Fractional CMO, CEO and Founder of Moxie Method

Jose Aveces

Negave Mexico Office, CEO of Casa Aceves

Guy Haran

Israel Spirits Connector, Founder Vinspiration

Michael Morales

Agave Spirits Connector, Master Catador Tequila Aficionado

Roberto Sanchez

Agave Agriculture Connector, Founder of Agave 100 Incubator-Accelerator

Deborah Lovich

Negave HR Advisor, BCG Senior Partner

Mor Koral

Negave Israel Operations, Mixologist and Patron Ambassador