Name of Estate/Domaine:
Château St. Thomas
Produced by:
Château St. Thomas is a family-run estate in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, founded by Saïd Touma and currently led by his son, Joe-Assaad, alongside Nadia, Nathalie, Claudine, and Micheline. The winery blends respect for nature with modern practices and is part of the “Wine Mosaic” initiative preserving indigenous varieties. They are known for bringing rare grapes like Obeidy into focus, while also producing expressive blends from international varieties.
Country/Region:
Lebanon – Bekaa Valley, 1,000–1,200 meters above sea level. Warm days and cool nights, combined with fertile soils, create ideal conditions for balanced ripening and diverse grape cultivation.
Grape/Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah
ABV: Approx. 13–14%
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep ruby-red color.
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Aroma: Aromatic and complex, with nuances of conifer, spice, rosemary, ginger, and chocolate.
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Palate: Rich and full-bodied with round, well-integrated tannins and a generous, structured profile. Notes of ripe blackcurrant, minty herbs, and exotic spices add depth and character.
Terroir:
The Bekaa Valley’s altitude, warm days, cool nights, and fertile soils support a range of grape varieties, making it Lebanon’s premier wine region.
Viticulture:
- Vineyards cultivated with respect for nature and sustainable practices.
- Focus on expressing terroir while preserving indigenous grape varieties.
Vinification:
- Careful fermentation to retain aromatic complexity and structure.
- Blending to achieve balance between richness, tannins, and freshness.
- Modern techniques combined with traditional practices for elegance and depth.
Food pairing:
- Grilled lamb or beef dishes.
- Stews with aromatic herbs and spices.
- Aged cheeses or soft semi-hard cheeses.
- Roasted vegetables or earthy, spiced dishes.
This wine reflects the estate’s commitment to crafting expressive wines that respect native tradition and terroir while achieving modern elegance.
Best served at 16–18°C to fully appreciate its structure, aromatics, and complexity.