North Lebanon, Lebanon
North Lebanon is a historic wine region in Lebanon that produces high-quality wines from both local and international grape varietals.
Regional History & Terroir: North Lebanon is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, with evidence of winemaking dating back over 5,000 years. The region has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, and a range of soils including limestone, clay, and gravel. The terroir is characterized by the foothills of the Lebanon Mountains, which provide a variety of altitudes and microclimates for grape cultivation.
Typical Grape Varietals: North Lebanon is known for growing both local and international grape varietals, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region is also known for its indigenous grape varietals, such as Merwah and Obeidi.
Regional Wine Styles: North Lebanon produces a range of high-quality wines, including dry, semi-dry, and sweet white wines, as well as full-bodied red wines. The traditional winemaking method of fermentation in concrete vats is still widely used in the region, resulting in wines with a distinct character and complexity. The region is also known for its rosé wines, which are made from a blend of red and white grape varietals. In addition, North Lebanon produces a variety of arak, a traditional anise-flavored spirit that is popular in the Middle East
