From: Vallée de la Bekaa - Liban, Lebanon
Blend: Viognier, Chardonnay, Obeidi (an indigenous grape) and Muscat d’Alexandria
Taste: The 2021 Tourelles Blanc presents a harmonious bouquet of ripe peaches, brined green apples, and delicate white flowers, such as jasmine and honeysuckle. Subtle undertones of fresh herbs and a hint of wet stone reveal the terroir's unique character.
Upon first taste, the wine delivers a lively and refreshing acidity that balances the rich fruit flavors. The palate is treated to a medley of stone fruits, citrus zest, and green apple, intertwined with nuances of white pepper and a touch of honey. The wine's medium body and well-integrated minerality contribute to its overall structure, while the finish is long, crisp, and satisfying.
Pairing: The 2021 Tourelles Blanc's versatile nature allows it to pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Light appetizers, such as a fresh green salad topped with goat cheese and toasted almonds, accentuate the wine's vibrant acidity. For seafood lovers, a plate of grilled shrimp or seared scallops with a citrus herb dressing complements the wine's fruity and herbal notes.
Regional Pairings: The wine's Lebanese roots make it an ideal pairing for Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditional mezze dishes, such as hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves, harmonize with the wine's refreshing acidity and aromatic profile. Additionally, a dish of grilled halloumi cheese drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice or a plate of kibbeh, a mixture of bulgur wheat, minced meat, and spices, would enhance the wine's complexity. Check out the recipe inspired by this note below.
Vegetarian Pairings: For vegetarian options, the 2021 Domaine des Tourelles Blanc pairs well with dishes that highlight fresh vegetables and bold flavors. A warm quinoa salad with roasted root vegetables, feta cheese, and a lemon-tahini dressing showcases the wine's acidity and fruity notes. Alternatively, a grilled vegetable platter, featuring eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, served with a yogurt-garlic dipping sauce, enhances the wine's herbaceous and floral aromas. Lastly, a creamy mushroom risotto with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and grated Parmesan cheese would complement the wine's body and minerality.
Crispy Rice Salad With Halloumi and Ginger-Lime Vinaigrette
By Alexa Weibel
About. In the heart of the Bekaa Valley, nestled among the region's historic winemaking traditions, lies Domaine des Tourelles, a winery that has stood the test of time. Founded in 1868, this resilient estate has persevered through wars, political upheaval, and shifting international tastes. Today, we take a closer look at one of their finest offerings, the 2021 Domaine des Tourelles Blanc Vallée de la Bekaa - Liban, a wine that pays homage to its Lebanese roots while embracing a French influence in winemaking.
A Rich History of Winemaking
Lebanon's winemaking history stretches back to ancient times, when the Greeks and Romans were inspired by the fertile region. The extraordinary altitude and limestone-rich soil of the Bekaa Valley have contributed to its reputation as one of the world's highest altitude production zones. Domaine des Tourelles has been a part of this long-standing tradition, continuously producing wine for over 150 years.
A French Influence in the Heart of Lebanon
Domaine des Tourelles' modern era of winemaking is marked by the influence of winemaker Faouzi Issa, who studied abroad and apprenticed at prestigious wineries like Rene Rostaing in Cote Rotie and Chateau Margaux in Bordeaux. Issa's passion for the grapes of these regions has found its own unique expression in Lebanese winemaking, where blending different grape varieties is not only commonplace but also helps to define the character of the region.
The 2021 Domaine des Tourelles Blanc: A Unique Blend
The 2021 Domaine des Tourelles Blanc stands out with its distinctive blend of Viognier, Chardonnay, Obeidi (an indigenous grape), and Muscat d'Alexandria. Grown in clay-limestone and gravel soils, the grapes are hand-harvested and fermented using indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks. This unique blend showcases the best of Lebanese terroir while incorporating a touch of French winemaking expertise.
