Welcome to our list of buzzworthy wineries in Lebanon for your bacchanalian road trip!

Lebanon is one of the most overlooked and underrated destinations for wine lovers, with an ancient history intimately linked to this famed fermented drink. The Phoenicians were making wine at least as early as the Bronze Age. Wine was even one of the most valuable commodities that they traded within their extensive maritime network, and it was also an important part of their religious rituals. The Phoenicians planted vineyards in Lebanon, and they used special clay jars to store and transport the wine. They also developed a type of press that was used to extract the juice from the grapes. 

They passed their knowledge of wine-making on to the Greeks, and it is thought that the Phoenician method of fermentation was responsible for the development of champagne. Today, Lebanon is home to a number of wineries that produce excellent wines using traditional methods. Visitors to Lebanon can learn about the history of wine-making and taste some of the finest wines in the world.

Without further ado, let’s get your vino-fueled road trip started with these buzzworthy Lebanese wineries!

Best Wineries in Lebanon for A Vino Lover’s Road Trip

1. Chateau Ksara — Zahle, Lebanon

Chateau Ksara is a Lebanese winery that was founded in 1857 by the Lebanese Maronite Order. The winery is located in the Bekaa Valley, which has a long history of viticulture and is one of the most important wine-growing regions in Lebanon. Chateau Ksara produces a wide range of wines, from white and red table wines to fortified wines and dessert wines. This Lebanese winery's most famous wine is Ksara Reserve du Couvent, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cinsault. The Ksara Reserve du Couvent has won numerous awards and is widely considered to be one of the finest Lebanese wines. In addition to its exquisite wines, Chateau Ksara also offers visitors the opportunity to tour its cellars and learn about the winemaking process. Chateau Ksara is a must-visit for any fan of Lebanese wine.

2. Ixsir Winery — Batroun, Lebanon

Ixsir is a winery in Lebanon that produces a wide variety of red and white wines. The winery is located in Batroun. Ixsir was founded in 2006 by winemaker Ghassan Halioui and viticulturist Pascal Buyck. The winery's first vintage was released in 2009. Ixsir produces wines using both traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The winery has a state-of-the-art facility that includes a laboratory, temperature-controlled fermenters, and barrels from French cooperages. Ixsir's wines have received critical acclaim from wine experts around the world. In addition to producing excellent wines, Ixsir is also committed to sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices. The winery has its own solar panel system that provides energy for the entire facility. Ixsir is an example of a winery that is environmentally conscious and is making an effort to be sustainable. 

3. Chateau St. Thomas — Zahle, Lebanon

Chateau St. Thomas is a Lebanese winery that has been in operation for over 20 years. The winery is located in the Bekaa Valley, and it produces a variety of red, white, and sparkling wines. Chateau St. Thomas is best known for its red wines, which include cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and syrah. The winery also produces a white wine made from the chardonnay grape, as well as a sparkling wine made from a blend of local grape varieties. In addition to its wines, Chateau St. Thomas also produces olive oil and honey. Visitors to the winery can take tours of the facilities and taste the various wines that are produced there.

4. Chateau Kefraya — Kefraya, Lebanon

Chateau Kefraya is one of the most renowned wineries in Lebanon. The winery's flagship wine is the Kefraya Blanc de Blancs, a white wine made from Chardonnay grapes. The winery also produces red wines, including the Kefraya Les Aimables and the Kefraya Les Hauts de Kefraya. In addition to its wines, Chateau Kefraya also produces olive oil and honey. The winery's products are available in Lebanon, France, and other countries around the world.

5. Domaine Des Tourelles — Jdita, Lebanon

Domaine Des Tourelles is one of the oldest wineries in Lebanon. The winery uses traditional methods to produce its wines, which have won numerous awards. The vineyards are situated at a high altitude, and the climate is perfect for growing grapes. The winery produces a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. In addition to its wines, Domaine Des Tourelles also produces olive oil and honey. Visitors to the winery can tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and purchase products to take home. Domaine Des Tourelles is a must-visit for anyone interested in Lebanese wine.

6. Chateau Heritage — Zahle, Lebanon

Chateau Heritage is a Lebanese wine estate that produces some of the finest wines in the country. The chateau is located in the Bekaa Valley, on the slopes of Mount Lebanon. The vineyards at Chateau Heritage are planted with a variety of grape varieties, including Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The climate in the Bekaa Valley is ideal for growing grapes, and the chateau benefits from a long growing season. The wines produced at Chateau Heritage are rich and full-bodied, with delicate aromas and flavors. The chateau has won numerous awards for its wines, and is widely recognized as one of the leading producers of Lebanese wine.

7. Coteaux Du Liban — Zahle, Lebanon

Coteaux du Liban is a Lebanese wine region located in Zahle. The region has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The terrain is mostly mountainous, with several hills and valleys. The soil is mainly limestone, with some clay and sandstone. There are two main grape-growing areas in the region: the Bekaa Valley and the coastal plain. Lebanese wines are typically made from a blend of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. The wines produced in the Coteaux du Liban region are known for their high quality and distinct flavor. They are often described as being fruity and floral, with hints of spice. Lebanese wines like Coteaux Du Liban have won numerous international awards and accolades, and are becoming increasingly popular worldwide.

8. Domaine Wardy — Zahle, Lebanon

Lebanon is a country with a long and rich history of winemaking. For centuries, Lebanon has been home to some of the world's finest wines, and Domaine Wardy is one of the country's most prestigious wineries. Located in the Bekaa Valley, Domaine Wardy has been producing high-quality wines since 1881. The winery's vineyards are located on the slopes of Mount Lebanon, and the winery itself is situated in a beautiful 18th-century chateau. Domaine Wardy produces a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. The winery's flagship wine is the Domaine Wardy Cuvée du Château Blanc, a white wine that is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. The Domaine Wardy Cuvée du Château Blanc has a complex flavor profile, with notes of citrus, honeysuckle, and oak. The wine is widely considered to be Lebanon's finest white wine, and it has won numerous awards. If you're looking for an outstanding Lebanon wine, look no further than Domaine Wardy.

9. Massaya Winery — Faqra, Lebanon

If you're looking for a truly memorable wine-tasting experience, then you need to head to Massaya Winery. This family-run winery produces some of the best wines in Lebanon. The vineyards are situated at a high altitude, which lends the wines a unique minerality. And the wines are aged in barrels made from Lebanese oak, which imparts a distinctive flavor profile. Whether you're tasting the flagship Red Blend or the Single Vineyard Syrah, you'll be impressed by the quality of Massaya's wines. If you're lucky enough to visit during harvest season, you can even participate in the grape-picking process. Alternatively, if you visit during the winter, you can mix a tour with nearby skiing at Mzaar. 

10. Chateau Musar — Ghazir, Lebanon

Chateau Musar is one of the most popular Lebanese wines, and has been produced since 1930. This Lebanese wine is made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsaut, and Carignan grapes. It is also aged for between 12 and 18 months in French oak barrels, and then stored in cellars for an additional three to six years. This lengthy aging process gives Chateau Musar its distinctive flavor, which has been described as "a cross between Bordeaux and Burgundy." The wine is full-bodied and complex, with notes of blackberry, cassis, and chocolate. It pairs well with hearty dishes such as grilled steak or roasted lamb. Chateau Musar is a popular choice for both casual drinkers and serious connoisseurs alike.

11. Latourba — Bekaa, Lebanon

Founded in 1998 by brothers Pascal and Laurence Bouchara, Latourba is a Lebanese winery that offers a range of red, white, and rosé wines. Located in the Bekaa Valley, the winery benefits from a Mediterranean climate that is ideal for grape-growing. In addition to traditional French grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, Latourba also cultivates Lebanese varietals like Obeidi and Sodabi. The winery is committed to sustainable practices, and all of their wines are produced using organic grapes. Visitors to Latourba can tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. With its stunning setting and innovative wines, Latourba is an unforgettable experience for any wine lover. As a bonus, the lack of light pollution in the Bekaa Valley makes it a perfect place to stargaze in Lebanon after nightfall. 

12. Chateau Marsyas — Bekaa, Lebanon

Nestled in the Bekaa Valley, Chateau Marsyas is a Lebanese winery that has been producing award-winning wines for over 30 years. The warm Mediterranean climate and rich soil of the valley create the perfect conditions for grapevines to thrive, and the expert team at Chateau Marsyas knows how to make the most of these ideal conditions. Their red wines are particularly renowned, and their flagship wine, the Chateau Marsyas Reserve, has won numerous awards. If you're looking for a Lebanese wine that is sure to impress, Chateau Marsyas is a great option.

13. Chateau Ka — Chtaura, Lebanon

Chateau Ka is a Lebanese winery that has been producing award-winning wines for over two decades. The grapes are handpicked at peak ripeness and then fermented in French oak barrels. Chateau Ka produces a variety of red and white wines, as well as a dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes. The wines are well-balanced and have complex aromas and flavors. Chateau Ka wines have won numerous awards, and the winery is considered one of the best in Lebanon. If you're looking for an exceptional Lebanese wine, Chateau Ka is definitely worth trying.

14. Domaine de Baal — Zahle, Lebanon

Lebanon has a long and rich history with wine, dating back to the sixth millennium BC. The country is home to the Bacchus temple in Baalbek, which is a testament to Lebanon's long-standing connection to wine. In recent history, Lebanese winemaking has been enriched by the know-how of French missionaries. Lebanon enjoys an ideal climate for grape growing, with snow and rainfall during winter, abundant water springs, and plenty of sunlight during the rest of the year. The country also benefits from a great terroir. Domaine de Baal is located on the slopes of the Mount-Lebanon mountains, facing the magnificent Bekaa Valley. The Domaine de Baal estate has been prospering since its first production in 2008. 

15. Chateau Khoury — Dhour Zahle

Chateau Khoury is a Lebanese winery that has been in operation for over 50 years. The winery is located in the Bekaa Valley, and its wines are made from a blend of local and international grape varietals. Chateau Khoury produces a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. The winery is best known for its Lebanese Muscat, a sweet white wine that is often served as a dessert wine. Chateau Khoury also produces a number of red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. In addition to its wines, Chateau Khoury also produces olive oil and honey. The winery offers tours and tastings, and its products can be purchased online or at the winery itself.

16. Riachi Winery & Distillery — Khenchara, Lebanon

Lebanon is home to a number of wineries, but Riachi Winery & Distillery is truly a family affair. Founded by Moses Riachi in 1839 in the Lebanese mountain village of Khenchara, the business has been passed down 8 generations. Today, the Riachi portfolio includes more than 10 different wine expressions, as well as the first Lebanese single malt whisky, arak, Lebanese craft gin, and several specialty spirits and liqueurs. The commitment to quality that Moses Riachi instilled in his winery nearly two centuries ago remains evident in every bottle produced by Riachi today. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Khenchara to the state-of-the-art production facility, each step in the winemaking process is overseen by the skilled team at Riachi. The result is a collection of award-winning wines that have helped put Lebanon on the map as a premier producer of fine wine. With its rich history and commitment to quality, Riachi Winery & Distillery is truly a Lebanese institution.

17. Chateau Wadih — Akoura, Lebanon

Chateau Wadih winery is one of the many wineries in Lebanon that offers a unique experience. The winery is located in the historic Byblos Mountains, and it uses a special probiotic substance to fortify its red wines. This substance is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system. Chateau Wadih also offers a variety of other products, including apple cider and honey-sweetened wine. The winery provides an enjoyable experience for all who visit, and its products are sure to please even the most discerning palate. A few years ago, Chateau Wadih even released a blue wine, which gets its pigmentation through a mixture of red and white grapes and two organic pigments, indigo and anthocyanin (both are naturally found in grape skin). 

18. Chateau Nabise — Rechmaya, Lebanon

Chateau Nabise winery is one of the most popular wineries in Lebanon. It is known for its beautiful gardens and its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The winery produces a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines. Visitors to Chateau Nabise can take a tour of the winery, taste the different wines that are produced, and buy bottles of wine to take home with them. The winery also has a restaurant, which serves Lebanese cuisine and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.

19. Aurora — Batroun, Lebanon

Lebanon is home to many wineries, each with its own unique style. This family-owned estate is one of the newer wineries in the country, having only been established in 2003. However, it has quickly become known for its combination of traditional and innovative wine-making techniques. They grow their vineyards on mountainous terraces, which helps to give their wines a distinct flavor. In addition, they draw inspiration from the world’s vineyards blended with the respect and appraisal for Lebanon’s terroir to create outstanding wines that embrace the region of Batroun, North Lebanon. 

People Also Ask These Questions About Wineries in Lebanon

What makes Lebanese wines unique?

There are many factors that make Lebanese wines unique. One is the climate of Lebanon, which is Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. This climate is ideal for growing grapes, and it results in wines with high acidity and moderate alcohol levels. Another factor that makes Lebanese wines unique is the terroir. Lebanon has a variety of soil types, including limestone, sandstone, and clay. These soils impart different flavors and aromas to the wines, giving them their distinctive character. Finally, the winemaking traditions of Lebanon are quite different from those of other countries. For example, some producers use ancient methods such as fermentation in amphorae or maceration with grape skins for extended periods of time. These methods give Lebanese wines their signature flavor and make them truly unique.

What are some of the best wineries to tour in Lebanon?

Lebanon is home to some of the oldest wineries in the world, and many of these historic establishments offer tours and tastings for visitors. The Chateau Musar Winery is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Lebanon, known for its quality wines and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Kefraya Winery is another top choice, offering a variety of red and white wines as well as a scenic tour of the production facilities. For those looking to sample some of Lebanon's best-known wines, a visit to the Chateau Ksara Winery is a must. The winery offers a variety of tours, including an overview of the wine-making process and a tasting of some of their most popular blends. 

Is it expensive to tour the wineries in Lebanon?

It is no secret that wine touring can be expensive. However, there are ways to enjoy the experience without breaking the bank. One way to save money is to visit Lebanon during the off-season. Many wineries offer special discounts and deals during the winter months, making it a great time to visit. Another way to save money is to book a tour through a travel agent. Travel agents often have access to special rates and can often arrange for transportation and lodging at a discounted rate. Finally, be sure to take advantage of any free wine tastings in Lebanon that are offered. Many wineries offer complimentary tastings for those who purchase a bottle of wine. By following these tips, you can enjoy a wine tour of Lebanon without spending a fortune.

How long has winemaking been going on in Lebanon?

Winemaking in Lebanon dates back 7,000 years to biblical times. In the city of Baalbek, in the Bekaa Valley, an astonishingly intact second-century temple to Bacchus, Roman god of wine, holds a dramatic mirror to wine’s cultural significance in this part of the world. Between 2700 B.C. and 300 B.C., the Phoenicians spread viticulture throughout the Mediterranean. The winemaking tradition continued under Arab rule following the seventh-century Arab conquest of the region. And during Ottoman rule, which lasted from the 16th century until 1918, winemaking flourished in Lebanon’s mountain villages. Today, Lebanon has more than 50 wineries producing a wide range of reds, whites, and rosés. The majority of the country’s vineyards are located in the Bekaa Valley, where winemakers benefit from a long growing season and ample sunlight. The valley’s well-drained soils and moderate climate are also ideal for grapevines. Given Lebanon’s rich winemaking history and tradition of excellence, it is no surprise that Lebanese wines are gaining international acclaim.