Renaissance for native grapes

Some of the country’s oldest and most established wineries are re-exploring the qualities of indigenous grapes. The benefits are clear, and varieties like obeidi and merwah are proving pest resistant and bountiful, and are appreciated by wine tasters. Encouraged by the results, wineries are producing an increasing number of local wines for global and local markets every year.

Homegrown vine

Obeidi’s rebirth began in 2015, when Château St. Thomas released its eponymous bottle ‘Obeidy’. “We wanted to maintain some local varieties, and, Managing Partner. Other obeidis have since entered the market, such as Domaine Wardy’s ‘Obeïdeh’, and Château Musar’s blend of obeidi and merwah. “Having an indigenous grape will bring fame to our wine,” said , Chairman of Union Vinicole du Liban (UVL). Château Kefraya also began working with local varieties in 2015. It launched ‘Les Exceptions’, a merwah, in January 2018, and ‘Adeene’, a blend of merwah, obeidi, and meksesse early this year. “It was a long process as all the local varieties are planted on Château Kefraya’s terroir,” said , Vineyard Manager. The indigenous varieties are planted on one hectare (10,000 square meters). Each plot has been carefully selected to bring out the flavors of the original grapes that make up white wine, Azzi said.