Lebanese Wines

Lebanon has a viticultural heritage that stretches back over 5,000 years, largely pioneered by the ancient Phoenicians. These coastal people were legendary maritime traders who traveled across the Mediterranean, spreading vines and winemaking techniques to ancient Greece, Rome, and parts of North Africa. Wine production is even mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament of the Bible, cementing Lebanon's status as a foundational cradle of global wine culture.

The vast majority of Lebanon’s premium vineyards are nestled in the high-altitude Bekaa Valley, a fertile plateau situated between the Mount Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges. Located around 1,000 metres above sea level, this valley benefits from an exceptional microclimate. It combines hot, sun-drenched summer days with cool mountain nights, allowing grapes to ripen fully whilst retaining their essential natural acidity.

Whilst Lebanon is famous for its success with French varieties, it boasts ancient indigenous grapes that are attracting immense global interest. The leading native white varieties are Obaideh and Merwah, which thrive in the mountain soils to produce rich, texturally complex white wine styles featuring notes of honey, citrus, and wild herbs. These ancient varieties are often believed to be the ancestral relatives of famous European grapes like Chardonnay.

Lebanese wine is a fascinating hybrid of both worlds. The modern industry was heavily shaped by French influence during the 19th and 20th centuries, meaning production methods lean strongly toward the old world tradition of blending. However, the intense Mediterranean sunshine creates a ripe, plush fruit concentration that mirrors new world regions. A typical Lebanese red wine blends the structure, savoury complexity, and age-worthiness of Bordeaux with the sunny warmth and opulence of the Rhône Valley.

The robust, spicy, and texturally rich nature of Lebanese wine makes it a magnificent match for Middle Eastern and Eastern Mediterranean dining. Full-bodied red blends from the Bekaa Valley pair effortlessly with grilled meats, roasted lamb, and dishes seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon, allspice, and sumac. Meanwhile, the rich, aromatic profile of an Obaideh white wine or a crisp rosé wine provides the perfect counterpoint to a traditional mezze selection, cutting through the creamy texture of hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel.