Wine Articles & Wine Reviews

From War to Wine By Guy Haran

09/09/2008

 

A year ago, Israel and Lebanon were at war. The fires that scorched the earth of the two countries haven't gone out yet. A wine trail along the famous wineries of south Lebanon and the northern part of Israel may sound like science fiction today. Wine enthusiasts, however, preconceive this trail today by flocking the region for its unique spiciness in the wine.

Since ancient times, South Lebanon has been renowned for its fertile soil and ideal climate for grapes. The first commercial winery in Lebanon was founded by Jesuit priests in 1857. This winery, known as "Kasara"continues to produce quality wine. Over the years, wines from "Chateau Kefraya" and "Chateau Musar" have impressed critics from around the world. Today, Lebanon produces approximately six million bottles annually, nearly half of which are exported. Lebanon's greatest competitor in the region is its southern neighbor, Israel. As in Lebanon, Israel's first commercial wineries were established at the end of the 19^th century. The "Teperberg winery" (1870) and "Carmel winery" (1882) are still among the largest wineries in Israel.

Due to new scientific findings that link conscious wine consumption to reduced heart problems, the demand for wine in Israel has been increasing. Israel produces approximately 38 million bottles of wine annually, almost a quarter of which are exported. Not only has this industry been booming, the quality has also continued to improve, both in Israel and in Lebanon. In the near future, both countries could be expected to shift their competition from war to wine, and then we can all travel the beautiful wine trail together. Thus, Israel and Lebanon have more to gain in trading quality wine than trading missiles.

 

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