Various indigenous strains of Saccharomyces sp. (SCP-1, SCP-3, SCP-4, SCP-5, SCP-7) isolated from datepalm (Phoenix dactylifera) sap were evaluated for alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) enzyme activity, ethanol production and alcohol tolerance limits and compared with standard culture of S. cerevisiae (S.C.Std). Alcoholic contents in juice samples fermented with different yeast strains varied considerably (8.9-12.5%, v/v) as determined by GLC. Yeast cultures showed varied in vitro ethanol tolerance (3-12%). Isolate SCP-1 was found superior showing 12.5% ethanol production, high ADH enzyme activity (4.38 units/ml) and higher alcohol tolerance maintaining cell viability at 12% ethanol in YPD medium up to 48 h.