Lebanese wine falls under the category of Old World wines. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Lebanon has a rich and ancient winemaking tradition that dates back thousands of years. The country has a diverse climate and terroir, which allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of grape varietals.
Lebanon, located in the Middle East, can be considered as one of the cradles of winemaking. The Phoenicians, an ancient civilization that inhabited the region, were renowned for their seafaring skills and trade routes. They were instrumental in spreading viticulture and winemaking techniques throughout the Mediterranean, including what is now modern-day Lebanon.
The winemaking industry in Lebanon went through periods of growth and decline over the centuries. However, it experienced a renaissance in the 20th century when some pioneering wineries emerged. One of the most famous and influential wineries is Chateau Musar, which was founded in 1930. Chateau Musar gained international recognition for its high-quality wines, made from both traditional Lebanese grape varieties and international ones.
Lebanese wines are often made from indigenous grape varieties such as Obeidi, Merwah, and Ksara, as well as international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Chardonnay. The unique combination of local grape varieties and winemaking techniques influenced by both Old World and New World styles gives Lebanese wines a distinct character.
In terms of winemaking practices, Lebanon follows the Old World tradition. The emphasis is on terroir, where the specific characteristics of the soil, climate, and vineyard location play a crucial role in determining the wine's quality and style. The wineries in Lebanon tend to focus on producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their vineyards, rather than aiming for a consistent house style.
Lebanese winemakers also often employ traditional winemaking techniques, including hand-harvesting, gentle pressing, and extended aging in oak barrels. These practices contribute to the complexity and elegance of Lebanese wines.
Having personally tasted and studied Lebanese wines, I can attest to their Old World characteristics. The wines display a sense of restraint, elegance, and balance, with flavors that are often more subtle and nuanced compared to the bold and fruity styles commonly associated with New World wines.
To summarize, Lebanese wine is considered Old World due to its rich historical winemaking tradition, use of indigenous grape varieties, emphasis on terroir, and adherence to traditional winemaking practices. The unique combination of ancient viticultural heritage and modern winemaking techniques makes Lebanese wines truly distinctive and worth exploring.