Merwah grapes, often referred to as the 'pearl of vines', are an indigenous variety primarily grown in the elevated regions of Lebanon, especially Bekaa Valley. Prized for their sweet yet subtly complex flavour, these grapes have been the cornerstone of the famed Lebanese wine industry for centuries, forming the base for the country's oldest and most revered wines.
These small, fair-skinned fruits are exceptionally resistant to the local climatic extremes, growing well even at altitudes above 1,000 meters. They typically ripen from mid-September to early October, yielding a slightly reduced harvest compared to other varieties. However, the exquisite taste they lend to the wines is well worth the wait.
Merwah wines demonstrate a delicate interplay of sweet floral notes, crisp acidity, and nuanced undertones of exotic fruits. The resulting libation is refreshingly light-bodied, accentuated by an inviting luminous golden hue. With an almost effervescent finish, Merwah wines are particularly esteemed for their versatility, pairing well with a broad range of cuisines, from spicy Middle Eastern dishes to subtler European flavours.
A substantial chunk of land dedicated to the Merwah grape is utilised by Chateau Musar, a famed winery that has capitalised on this unique grape to produce award-winning white wines often compared to the 'grand cru' from France.
Thus far, Merwah grapes have largely been overshadowed by more common grape varieties. However, as the world turns towards indigenous, lesser-known grapes that celebrate the unique terroir of a region, the Merwah grape's rightful recognition on the global viticulture stage is gaining acceleration. It stands as a testament to the depth and diversity of the Lebanese viticulture tradition.
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