A Journey Through Time at Chateau Ksara

As I stepped into the historic grounds of Chateau Ksara, I was immediately enveloped by the rich tapestry of history and tradition that this venerable estate exudes. Founded in 1857 by Jesuit priests, Chateau Ksara is not only Lebanon’s oldest winery but also a testament to the enduring legacy of winemaking in the Bekaa Valley. The air was filled with the intoxicating aroma of fermenting grapes, a scent that seemed to whisper tales of the past.

The tour began with a stroll through the lush vineyards, where rows of vines stretched out like soldiers standing at attention. The sun cast a golden hue over the landscape, highlighting the vibrant green of the leaves and the deep purple of the grapes. Our guide, a passionate oenophile, regaled us with stories of the winery’s storied past and its pioneering role in developing Lebanon’s first dry wine.

Inside the cellars, the cool, dimly lit corridors were lined with oak barrels, each one a vessel of potential, holding the promise of future vintages. Tasting the wines of Chateau Ksara was a revelation; each sip was a journey through layers of flavor, from the bright, crisp notes of their white wines to the rich, complex depths of their reds. It was a sensory experience that left me yearning for more.

The Majestic Slopes of Chateau Kefraya

Our next stop was Chateau Kefraya, a sprawling vineyard that covers 300 hectares of terraced slopes, perched 1000 meters above the Mediterranean Sea. The drive up to the estate was a scenic delight, with the road winding through the picturesque Bekaa Valley, offering glimpses of the majestic mountains that cradle this fertile region.

At Chateau Kefraya, the diversity of grape varieties and the unique terroir create wines that are as intriguing as they are delicious. The significant temperature variations between day and night ensure that the grapes ripen perfectly, resulting in wines that are both balanced and expressive. As I wandered through the vineyard, I marveled at the meticulous care that goes into each vine, a testament to the dedication and passion of the winemakers.

The tasting room at Chateau Kefraya was a haven of elegance, with panoramic views of the vineyard and the valley beyond. Here, I savored a selection of their finest wines, each one a testament to the artistry and skill of the winemakers. From the floral notes of their Viognier to the bold, spicy character of their Syrah, each wine told a story of the land and the people who nurture it.

The Passion of Chateau St Thomas

Our final destination was Chateau St Thomas, a vineyard that embodies the passion and expertise of the Touma family. Established in 1990 by Saïd Touma, this estate is a tribute to a lifetime of dedication to the art of winemaking. As I stood on the hill overlooking the Bekaa Valley, I felt a profound connection to the land and the legacy of those who have tended it for generations.

The tour of Chateau St Thomas was a deeply personal experience, as our guide, Joe-Assaad Touma, shared stories of his family’s journey and their commitment to producing exceptional wines. The vineyard, with its 65 hectares of carefully tended vines, is a testament to the family’s unwavering dedication to quality and tradition.

In the wine storehouse, the air was thick with the scent of fermenting grapes and aging oak. Tasting the wines of Chateau St Thomas was a revelation; each glass was a symphony of flavors, from the bright, citrusy notes of their white wines to the rich, velvety texture of their reds. It was a fitting conclusion to a day of indulgence and discovery, a celebration of the art and passion of winemaking in the Bekaa Valley.