At Wine Paris, I had the opportunity to meet Faouzi Issa from Domaine des Tourelles, a prominent wine producer located in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley. Known for creating impressive wines, Domaine des Tourelles blends traditional French techniques with local flavors, specifically leveraging the unique terroir of their 50 hectares of vineyards situated at altitudes above 1000 meters.
The sunny climate of the Bekaa Valley is moderated by its altitude, allowing for the growth of various grape varieties. Here are some highlights of their recent wine offerings:
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Domaine des Tourelles Vieilles Vignes Blanc Merweh Obeidh 2024
Bright, vivid, and mineral with citrus notes and a wet stone finish. 11% alcohol. Rated 91/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Classic White 2015
A blend featuring Viognier, Chardonnay, Muscat, and Obeidh, showcasing bright citrus and a taut, lemony flavor. Rated 91/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Skin Merweh 2023
From 150-year-old vines, this wine presents a lovely balance with pithy grip and bright citrus notes. Rated 93/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Marquis de Beys Blanc 2024
A composition of 70% Chardonnay, 15% Viognier, and 15% Sauvignon Blanc, offering nice weight and well-balanced fruit. Rated 91/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Classic Red 2022
This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cinsault, and Carignan is raised in concrete, resulting in a juicy, cherry-fruit experience. Rated 93/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Vieilles Vignes Cinsault 2022
Elegant and fruity with sweet strawberry notes, supported by spicy tannins. Rated 93/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Vieilles Vignes Carignan 2022
Supple and elegant, this wine is characterized by cherry fruit and a refined structure. Rated 94/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Marquis de Beys Rouge 2020
A blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, noted for its juicy flavors and oak complexity. Rated 92/100. -
Domaine des Tourelles Syrah du Liban Grand Cuvée 2021
Rich and ripe with balanced fruity depth and well-resolved tannins. Rated 92/100.
Domaine des Tourelles continues to be a keystone in Lebanese viticulture, producing wines that are both expressive and reflective of the region’s unique characteristics. For more information, visit Domaine des Tourelles.