Introduction:
Presentation of Lebanon as a country with a long and rich winemaking tradition, home to some of the oldest vineyards in the world.
Historical context of wine production in Lebanon and its revival in the modern era.
Geographic and climatic characteristics of the country: influence of the Mediterranean, mountains, valleys.
Production overview: cultivated grapes, diversity of wines, challenges and potential.
History of Winemaking in Lebanon:
Origins of viticulture in Lebanon: archaeological evidence, Phoenician and Roman influence.
The role of wine in Lebanese culture and religion.
Development of production over the centuries: Ottoman Empire, period of French influence.
Challenges and conflicts that impacted winemaking.
The renaissance of Lebanese winemaking in recent decades.
Lebanese Terroir:
Influence of the Mediterranean climate: sun, wind, temperature variations.
Diversity of terroirs: valleys, mountains, soils.
Main wine regions in Lebanon: Bekaa Valley, Batroun, Jezzine.
Microclimates and their influence on grape quality.
Grapes from Lebanon:
Indigenous varieties:
Tintas: Cinsault, Grenache, Carignan, Merwah, Cabernet Sauvignon.
Brancas: Obeideh, Merwah, Chardonnay.
Characteristics and potential of each variety.
Importance of preserving native grapes.
Other varieties grown in Lebanon.
Wine Production:
Vineyard management: adaptation to climatic conditions and soil types.
Winemaking techniques: traditional and modern methods.
Elaboration of different styles of wine: reds, whites, rosés, sparkling wines, dessert wines (Arak).
The search for identity and typicality in Lebanese wines.
The role of the winemaker in expressing terroir.
Appellations of Origin:
Lebanese wine classification system.
Main denominations of origin.
Regulations and specificities.
The Wines of Lebanon:
Sensory profiles of wines: aromas, flavors, structure, body.
Detailed descriptions of the wines, highlighting their characteristics.
Pairing with Lebanese cuisine.
Tips for tasting and appreciation.
Important labels and producers.
Wine tourism in Lebanon:
Attractions of the country: landscapes, culture, gastronomy.
Wine tourism itineraries and experiences.
Wine-related events and festivals.
The importance of wine tourism for the local economy.
Challenges and Perspectives:
Production challenges: political instability, climate change, competition.
Sustainability and environmental preservation.
Research and innovation in viticulture.
The future of winemaking in Lebanon.