Wine, Culture & Connection: Life in Lebanon & Cyprus Through a Glass

More Than Just Wine

In Lebanon and Cyprus, wine isn’t something you save for special occasions. It’s woven into everyday life — shared over meals, toasted during celebrations, and poured with pride by families who’ve tended vines for generations.
During my travels, I discovered that wine here isn’t just a drink — it’s a way of living.

Vineyards With a View

Driving through the Bekaa Valley, I passed fields of wild thyme and lavender, ancient Roman temples, and villages where time seems to stand still. Wineries like Château Ksara aren’t just places to taste wine — they’re cultural landmarks.
In Cyprus, the vineyards sit higher in the hills, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean. At Vouni Panayia Winery, I watched the sunset while sipping a crisp Xinisteri, realizing that beauty here isn’t just in the scenery — it’s in the simplicity of sharing a good bottle with good company.

Celebrating Life, One Toast at a Time

One night in Nicosia, I joined a group of friends at a traditional tavern. They poured wine freely, laughed loudly, and insisted I try everything — from moussaka to roast lamb. We toasted to life, to friendship, and to the joy of discovery.
In Beirut, I visited a family-owned winery where the matriarch served us wine straight from the barrel, along with fresh figs and homemade bread. She told me, “We don’t measure time in hours — we measure it in glasses.”

Sustainability & Soul

What struck me most was the commitment to sustainable practices. Many wineries are moving toward organic farming, solar-powered cellars, and eco-conscious packaging. These aren’t trends — they’re values passed down through generations.
At Clos St Thomas in Lebanon, I learned that biodynamics isn’t just a method — it’s a philosophy rooted in harmony with nature.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through Lebanon and Cyprus taught me that wine is more than a product — it’s a lifestyle, a legacy, and a love letter to the land.