Lebanon

While the road hasn’t been easy, after years of conflict, the resilient and positive Lebanese people have always worked towards building a wine industry worthy of international praise. The wines produced today, like the people encompass the vigor and seriousness of their enthusiasm. Situated in Western Asia, the country is bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as Cyprus to the west. The nation is split amongst four distinct geographical regions, including the Mediterranean coast, the Lebanon Mountain range, the Bekaa Valley and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains. Blessed by the ample snow-melt, the main wine-making region is Bekaa Valley, which is found between the snowcapped peaks of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountains. Planted at around 1000 - 1200 metres above sea level, these vineyards tend to produce the finest wines. The high-altitude brings cool air that slows ripening, leaving the grapes with a greater acidity, freshness and balance. And when it comes to winemaking, there is a symmetry between modernity and traditionalism here. The winemakers are slowly moving away from the heavier, over-oaked wines and onto the lighter, fresher wines, while still keeping in touch with their Lebanese roots. The resulting Lebanese wines are powerful, with notes of Middle Eastern spices and tannins which will definitely age well.