Copenhagen, a city celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene and discerning palate, is home to a growing community of wine enthusiasts. Known for their appreciation of quality and novelty, these wine lovers are constantly on the lookout for unique experiences and new flavors. One region that has been catching the attention of global wine connoisseurs but is yet to be fully discovered in Copenhagen is the Levant.
The Levant: A Region Rich in Wine Heritage
The Levant, a historical and geographical term referring to the eastern Mediterranean region, encompasses countries such as Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, and parts of Syria and Palestine. This area is not only steeped in history and culture but also boasts a winemaking tradition that dates back thousands of years. The unique terroir, characterized by a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, alongside rich, varied soils, provides an ideal environment for viticulture.
Why Copenhagen Should Explore Levantine Wines
- Historical Depth: The Levant’s winemaking heritage offers a sense of history and tradition that can fascinate any wine enthusiast. The region's wines often tell stories of ancient civilizations, offering a taste of the past.
- Quality and Craftsmanship: Modern winemakers in the Levant blend ancient techniques with contemporary practices to produce wines of exceptional quality. This dedication to craftsmanship is something Copenhagen's wine aficionados can truly appreciate.
- Sustainability: Many Levantine vineyards practice sustainable viticulture, respecting the environment and local ecosystems. This aligns with the values of many in Copenhagen, who prioritize sustainability in their consumption choices.
Notable Wines from the Levant
Lebanon
Lebanon, particularly the Bekaa Valley, is the heart of Levantine winemaking. Among the distinguished wineries in this region, Domaines des Tourelles stands out for its exceptional quality and historical significance. Established in 1868, it is one of the oldest wineries in Lebanon, blending traditional methods with modern techniques to produce outstanding wines.
Domaines des Tourelles offers a range of wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Bekaa Valley. Their red blends, often incorporating Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Cinsault, are celebrated for their complexity, elegance, and aging potential. The robust flavors typically feature notes of dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones, making them a favorite among connoisseurs.
One of their flagship wines, the Marquis des Beys, exemplifies the winery's commitment to quality. This blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon showcases rich, layered flavors with a harmonious balance of tannins and acidity, providing a memorable tasting experience. Additionally, their white wines, such as the Viognier and Chardonnay blends, offer vibrant acidity with floral and fruity notes, demonstrating the versatility and depth of Lebanese winemaking.
Palestine
Palestinian wines are gaining recognition for their unique expressions and quality, showcasing the region's rich heritage and innovative spirit. Notable wineries like Ashkar Winery and Philokalia are leading the charge, producing exceptional wines that reflect the distinctive terroir of Palestine.
Ashkar Winery, located in the Galilee, combines modern techniques with traditional methods to create wines that capture the essence of the region. Their varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, are celebrated for their rich flavors, well-balanced acidity, and smooth tannins. The winery's dedication to sustainability and quality has earned it a growing reputation among wine enthusiasts.
Domaine Kassis, a newer yet promising player in the Palestinian wine scene, is making waves with its focus on organic farming and biodynamic practices. Located in the Jerusalem Hills, Domaine Kassis produces wines that are both expressive and elegant. Their signature varietals, including the indigenous Dabouki and Jandali, as well as international varieties like Shiraz and Chardonnay, showcase a harmonious blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The Dabouki grape, for instance, offers a crisp and aromatic profile with notes of tropical fruit and a hint of spice, while their Shiraz is known for its bold structure and complex flavors.
Philokalia, another standout winery, is dedicated to reviving ancient Palestinian grape varieties and traditional winemaking practices. Their wines, made from indigenous grapes such as Baladi and Hamdani, offer unique flavor profiles with hints of herbs, spices, and a distinct minerality. Philokalia's commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of Palestinian winemaking makes their wines a fascinating and delicious exploration of the region's history.
Jordan
Jordan’s wine scene, though smaller, is growing rapidly. The basalt-rich soils of the Northern Highlands produce wines with intense flavors and good acidity. St. George Wines, for example, offers a range of well-crafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of Jordan.
Syria
Syria, with its ancient viticultural traditions, is also making a notable mark in the world of wine. Despite the challenges faced by the region, Syrian winemakers are producing wines that capture the essence of their unique terroir. The volcanic soils and Mediterranean climate of regions like the Damascus countryside provide an ideal environment for growing a variety of grapes, including indigenous and international varietals.
Domaine de Bargylus stands out as one of Syria's most renowned wineries. Located on the slopes of the Coastal Mountain Range, this winery has garnered international acclaim for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Their wines, including blends of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, are noted for their complexity, elegance, and expressive character. The reds are often rich with dark fruit flavors, balanced by earthy and spicy notes, while their whites, made from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, offer vibrant acidity and a refreshing finish.
Turkey
Turkey, with its ancient winemaking history dating back over 6,000 years, is a hidden gem in the world of wine. The country’s diverse climates and rich soils contribute to the production of a wide variety of distinctive wines, making it an exciting region for exploration by wine enthusiasts.
Key wine regions in Turkey include Thrace, the Aegean, and Central Anatolia. Each of these regions offers unique terroirs that are reflected in the wines produced. Indigenous grape varieties such as Kalecik Karası, Öküzgözü, and Boğazkere are celebrated for their unique flavors and characteristics. These native varietals provide a refreshing departure from the more commonly known international grapes.
For Copenhagen’s wine enthusiasts eager to explore the Levantine wine scene:
- Wine Tasting Journey: Vins du Levant is organizing a special wine tasting event on July 25, 2024 from 5-7 pm, that promises an immersive experience, with a variety of wines from Domaines des Tourelles, Lebanon. This event will offer attendees a unique opportunity to savor the diverse profiles and histories behind these exceptional wines. Buy your ticket today! https://vinsdulevant.dk/pages/events
- Vins du Levant Wine Club: Our Vins du Levant wine club is now available for exclusive membership. The club features discounts on wine purchases and access to our private cellar room for hosting events. What sets us apart from other wine clubs is that our members have the freedom to choose from any of our wines, in any quantity, at any time. They will also have priority for cultural events at our store and have the opportunity to join us on trips to the region to visit partnered wineries and explore new sources. For more information, go to https://vinsdulevant.dk/products/vins-du-levant-wine-club
The Levant offers a treasure trove of wines waiting to be discovered by Copenhagen’s adventurous wine community. By embracing these wines, Copenhagen can add a new dimension to its wine culture, celebrating the rich history, unique varietals, and exceptional craftsmanship of the Levant. So, raise a glass and embark on a flavorful journey through one of the world's oldest winemaking regions—there's a whole new world of wine to explore. Skål!