Lebanon

We don’t often think of Lebanon when we consider wine producing regions around the world but the country is actually a paradise for grape growing with its limestone soils, high altitude vineyards and near perfect climatic conditions. While the area continues to struggle with sociopolitical challenges, the winemaking industry in the country continues to grow.

The history of winemaking in Lebanon goes back thousands of years, but the modern era focuses on Mediterranean grapes like Grenache, Carignan, Mourvedre and Syrah. Most recently there has been a rush to plant Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec too. For white wines, Chardonnay, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon are widespread, but Viognier is increasingly important.