Château Ksara

Château Ksara, founded in 1857, is Lebanon’s oldest winery and a pioneer in modern winemaking. Located in the Bekaa Valley, it produces a diverse range of wines that combine tradition, innovation, and the region’s unique terroir.

History of Château Ksara

Established in 1857 by Jesuit priests, Château Ksara began as a mission to revive Lebanon’s winemaking tradition. The priests introduced French winemaking techniques, planting Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and other international grape varieties in the fertile Bekaa Valley. The winery quickly became a cornerstone of the country’s wine industry.

In 1973, the estate transitioned to private ownership under Lebanese families, who continued to modernize operations while preserving Ksara’s heritage. Today, Château Ksara is one of the leading producers in Lebanon, exporting wines to more than 40 countries. The estate’s historic underground Roman caves, discovered in 1898, are a hallmark of its legacy, providing ideal conditions for aging wines naturally.

Region and Vineyards

Château Ksara is located in the heart of the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon’s premier wine-growing region. The valley’s high altitude (900–1,000 meters) ensures cool nights and warm days, a Mediterranean climate perfect for achieving balance between ripeness and acidity in the grapes. Its limestone-rich soils enhance the wines’ structure and minerality.

The estate’s vineyards span over 450 hectares, planted with both indigenous and international grape varieties. Ksara employs sustainable farming practices to protect the terroir and ensure the production of high-quality grapes. Key varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache, and Chardonnay, among others.

Wine Range of Château Ksara

Château Ksara offers a diverse portfolio of wines:

• White Wines: Crisp, aromatic whites like Blanc de Blancs and Reserve du Couvent Blanc, highlighting vibrant acidity and elegance.
• Red Wines: Structured and complex reds, including the flagship Château Ksara, Reserve du Couvent Rouge, and Cuvée du Troisième Millénaire, showcasing the estate’s mastery of blending.
• Rosé Wines: Fresh and vibrant, with a focus on balance and fruit purity, such as the Sunset Rosé.
• Fortified and Sweet Wines: Including the iconic Vin d’Or, which balances sweetness with a fresh finish.

Did you know?

The Roman caves beneath Château Ksara, discovered by accident in 1898, are over 2 kilometers long and naturally maintain the perfect temperature and humidity for aging wines. These caves have become a significant historical and touristic site in Lebanon.