This March, we're embarking on a wine journey to discover the world's wines. If the world of wine fascinates you, then get ready to embark on a journey to a little-known wine region, where the history and unique characteristics of its wines deserve to be brought to light.
A Hidden Treasure: Wines of the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
The Bekaa Valley, located in Lebanon, is a wine-growing region that conjures up breathtaking landscapes, a thousand years of history and exceptional wines. Although the region is relatively unknown, it has a rich winemaking tradition that goes back several millennia.
Historical heritage
Winegrowing in Lebanon has deep roots, dating back to antiquity. The Phoenicians, one of the earliest peoples to cultivate vines, were the first to vinify grapes in the Bekaa Valley over 6,000 years ago. Lebanon is also associated with the myth of the god of wine, Bacchus, underlining the importance of wine in the region's culture.
The unique characteristics of Bekaa wines
The wines of the Bekaa Valley reflect its exceptional terroir. The Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, creates ideal conditions for growing vines. The varied soils, rich in limestone, clay and schist, add a distinctive complexity to the wines.
Among the grape varieties grown, Cinsault, Carignan, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cabernet Sauvignon stand out. These varieties produce full-bodied, aromatic red wines, as well as fresh, elegant white wines.
International renown
Although Bekaa wines have long been little-known outside the region, they are beginning to gain a well-deserved international reputation. Their rich, complex characteristics, together with local producers' commitment to sustainable viticulture, are attracting the attention of wine lovers the world over.
Tasting a little-known masterpiece
Bekaa Valley wines offer a unique taste experience. Their aromas and flavors evoke the Lebanese terroir, with notes of ripe fruit, spice and elegant minerality. They pair perfectly with Mediterranean cuisine, featuring mezze, kebabs and herbal dishes.
If you're looking to broaden your wine horizons and discover a hidden treasure, Lebanon's Bekaa wines are certainly worth tasting. Let yourself be seduced by the thousand-year-old history, unique characteristics and enchanting aromas of this little-known wine region. It's a sensory journey that will transport you back in time and through flavors.