We explore terroirs that express the unique character of the land, climate and people who cultivate them.
Batroun
Lebanon
At 55 Km north of Beirut, Batroun is one of the world's earliest regions to grow vines, dating back to Phoenician times. Today, its vineyards are undergoing a renaissance, benefiting from an excellent coastal location and a favorable climate.
The Bekaa Valley is the birthplace of the modern Lebanese wine industry. The special geographic situation of the terroir provides the vines with optimal exposure, resulting in wines that are unique in textures, tastes and flavors.
Although vineyards are mainly concentrated in the provinces of Barcelona and Tarragona, which together account for 84% of the region's vineyards, the diversity of terroirs is illustrated by the fact that Catalonia boasts 12 denominations of origin (and 300 wine cellars open to tourists).
At the end of the 90s, state-owned land in Dalmatia began to be invested by private individuals. The size of the vineyards was reduced, but the land most suitable for viticulture was selected, and the emphasis was placed on the quality of grape varieties and improved winemaking techniques.
Vines grown on the slopes of the Mediterranean side of ancient Mount Bargylus. The temperate climate and fertile soil of the Latakia hinterland provide the ideal setting for grapes to blossom.
Homer called this region "Ampeloessa", meaning "full of vines". Around Nemea, the city of wine, vines have been grown for over 3,000 years. There are some 300 grape varieties, 200 of which are indigenous to the region, some of which are thought to date back to Ancient Greece.
Sicilian vintages, notably those produced from the island's 85 indigenous grape varieties, have succeeded in establishing themselves at regional and international level, certainly blessed by the fires of Mount Etna.
Known as the "Golden Valley" under Roman rule, it has long been coveted for the fertility of its soil, irrigated by the Danube. The moderate continental climate of the valleys, whose slopes are planted with vines at altitudes ranging from 150 to 450 meters, allows for an extremely rich viticulture.
