Belgium
Known abroad for its craft beers, the European nation also produces
quality wines. Found in both Wallonia and Flanders, the country’s
vineyards cover a total area of 370 acres and are owned by around 90
winemakers, most of whom are Flemish. Belgium produces around 500,000
bottles of wine per year using up to 34 different grape varieties,
including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio.
Reds account for just 20 per cent of the country’s total production,
and the white wine production consists of around half still, half
sparkling. For a taste of Belgian bubbly, look for the “Vlaamse
Mousserende Kwaliteitswijn” label.
A tour of Belgian wine country might start with a trip to Genoels-Elderen, the country’s largest winery, which spans 54 acres.
Lebanon
Italy, Spain and France are not the only Mediterranean countries with
long and rich winemaking traditions. In fact, the land of the cedars is
thought to be one of the oldest wine production sites on the planet.
Tourists will find several scenic vineyards in the Bekaa Plain to the
east, close to the Syrian and Israeli borders. In recent years, the
region’s producers have been busy restoring their vines to health in the
aftermath of various conflicts.
The influence of French winemaking, and particularly of the Bordeaux
region, is clearly felt among Lebanese producers, with a focus on
growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache,
Mourvèdre and Cinsault grapes. The country also boasts its own
indigenous varieties, such as Obeideh and Merwah, which are slowly
beginning to make a comeback.
Newcomers
to Lebanese wine can start by getting to know Château Ksara, Lebanon’s
oldest winery, which was founded by Jesuits in 1857. Its 6,670 acres of
vineyards enjoy close to 300 days of sunlight annually and relatively
stable temperatures thanks to the nearby sea.
Ethiopia
Once best known internationally as the site of devastating famine and
other humanitarian disasters, Ethiopia has since acquired a different
image abroad thanks to its rich cuisine and culture. Now the country’s
wines are also making their way around the globe.
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