Lebanon, positioned along the eastern Mediterranean coast, benefits from the geographical advantages of the Bekaa Valley, enabling the production of top-tier wines despite its southern location. The valley's elevation, the majority over 1000 meter above sea level, moderates the climate, ideal for cultivating exceptional red wines.

Chateau Musar is the star of Lebanese wines and a world renowned winery, It produces Bordeaux-style wines made, amongst others, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsault, inspired by the techniques of the Bartons of St-Julien.

In Lebanon also noteworthy white wine and dry rosés are produced.

Regions in Lebanon

Bekaa Valley
All wines in Lebanon
Lebanon

The history of wines from Libanon

Lebanese winemaking goes back to the 19th century when Jesuit priests started winemaking in Ksara, within the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon's most important wine region.

Chateau Ksara emerged as one of the most important wine producer, contributing one-third of Lebanon's wine production. Together with estates like Chateau Musar and Chateau Kefraya, it gained worldwide recognition by using French grape varieties and winemaking methods.

Despite challenges, such as the civil war from 1975 to 1990, figures like Serge Hochar of Chateau Musar gained global acclaim for their high quality wines.

The grapes of Lebanese wines

Lebanese wines consist of a blend of local grapes, amongst others Cinsault and Obeideh and international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

Noteworthy is the Obaideh grape, which is used in winemaking but also in the production of Arak, an aniseed-flavored liquor. Merweh, a grape which has similarities with Semillon, is commonly blended with Obaideh to enhance the wine's character.

The terroir of Lebanese wines

Lebanons wine regions enjoy a Mediterranean climate owing to their location featuring hot summers and mild winters. The vineyards, often located at levels over 1000 meter above sealevel, thrive in nighttime temperatures that contribute to improving the grapes and wines overall quality.

The varied soil compositions such, as limestone, clay and gravel, in areas significantly influence the characteristics and excellence of Lebanese wines.

The Classification of Lebanese wines

Lebanon does not have a wine appellation and classification system for its wines, making it difficult to determine the quality levels of the wines. However, the Bekaa Valley is renowned for producing quality wines.



Added to favorites.