Nestled in the picturesque village of Ghebalé-Ftouh in Kesserwan, Château Sainte-Andrée represents a blend of passion, tradition, and craftsmanship in Lebanese winemaking. Known for its limited production of exceptional wines, this family-owned vineyard creates a range of red, rosé, white, and liqueur offerings, each reflecting the unique characteristics of the Lebanese terroir. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the distinctive wines of Château Sainte-Andrée, exploring their individual profiles and the story behind their creation.
The Essence of Château Sainte-Andrée
A Family Tradition
Château Sainte-Andrée is not just a winery; it’s a labor of love from a Lebanese family deeply passionate about winemaking. The family’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bottle produced. Each vintage is crafted with care and given a unique name and identity, reflecting both the family’s heritage and the distinctive qualities of the Lebanese landscape.
Limited Production
The winery’s approach to production is intentionally limited, allowing for a focus on quality over quantity. This meticulous approach ensures that each bottle of Château Sainte-Andrée wine embodies the essence of Lebanese terroir and the artistry of its makers.
Featured Wines of Château Sainte-Andrée
1. Laura Cuvée
- Blend: 60% Shiraz, 40% Pinot Noir
- Aging: 22 months in oak barrels
- Profile: Laura Cuvée is an exceptional wine that stands out for its unique blend of Shiraz and Pinot Noir. The Shiraz, aged for an extended period in oak barrels, imparts richness and depth to the wine, while the Pinot Noir adds a layer of complexity. This cuvée offers a rich mouthfeel with well-integrated tannins and a robust flavor profile.
- Serving Recommendations: Best served at 16˚C, Laura Cuvée pairs beautifully with red meat, cold cuts, and cheese, making it a versatile choice for various culinary experiences.
2. Cuvée Lynn
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot
- Aging: 22 months in new French oak
- Profile: Cuvée Lynn is a special cuvée from the Mount Lebanon region, crafted with a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot. This wine is generously aged in new French oak, which enhances its complexity and character. The result is a well-rounded wine with a deep, nuanced flavor profile.
- Serving Recommendations: Best enjoyed at 18˚C, Cuvée Lynn should be well decanted to fully appreciate its depth and complexity. It pairs elegantly with a variety of dishes, making it a sophisticated choice for special occasions.
3. Cuvée Peter
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- Aging: 12 months in French oak barrels, further aged in bottle
- Profile: Cuvée Peter is a distinguished wine crafted from old vines, combining Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Aged in French oak barrels and then in bottle, this wine develops a rich bouquet of tertiary aromas, including notes of coffee, truffles, and dark chocolate. Its unfiltered nature adds to its complexity and character.
- Serving Recommendations: Serve Cuvée Peter at 18˚C after decanting to enjoy its full range of flavors. This wine pairs wonderfully with tangy barbecue dishes and hearty meals, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The Experience of Château Sainte-Andrée
Exploring the Vineyard
A visit to Château Sainte-Andrée offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Lebanese winemaking firsthand. The vineyard’s scenic location in Ghebalé-Ftouh provides a stunning backdrop for exploring the winery’s offerings. Guests can enjoy guided tours, tastings, and a chance to learn about the family’s winemaking traditions and techniques.
Wine Tasting
Château Sainte-Andrée’s tasting experiences are designed to showcase the distinct characteristics of each cuvée. Visitors can sample the rich flavors and aromatic profiles of the Laura Cuvée, Cuvée Lynn, and Cuvée Peter, gaining insight into the artistry and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Pairing and Culinary Experiences
The winery’s wines are thoughtfully paired with a selection of local and international dishes, enhancing the tasting experience. From traditional Lebanese fare to gourmet cuisine, Château Sainte-Andrée’s wines offer a versatile range of pairings that complement a variety of culinary styles.
Conclusion
Château Sainte-Andrée stands as a testament to the art of winemaking in Lebanon, blending tradition, passion, and innovation. With its limited production and focus on quality, the winery produces exceptional wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Lebanese terroir. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Château Sainte-Andrée’s offerings—Laura Cuvée, Cuvée Lynn, and Cuvée Peter—provide a rich and rewarding exploration of Lebanese winemaking. Discover the excellence of Château Sainte-Andrée and savor the taste of Lebanese heritage in every bottle.
