Tucked away in the charming village of Eddé in Batroun, Clos du Phoenix stands as a testament to the rich winemaking tradition of Lebanon. Known for its rare terroir wines, Clos du Phoenix combines traditional craftsmanship with modern expertise to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of North Lebanon. This blog post explores the distinctive qualities of Clos du Phoenix, from its ideal terroir to its meticulous winemaking practices.
A Unique Terroir
Clay and Limestone Soil
Clos du Phoenix is situated in a region renowned for its ideal viticultural conditions. The vineyard benefits from a distinctive terroir characterized by clay and limestone soils, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the complex flavors of the wines. The combination of these soil types creates a foundation that supports the growth of high-quality grapes, allowing the vineyard to produce wines of exceptional character.
Microclimate
The microclimate of the Batroun region, with its moderate temperatures and gentle breezes, further enhances the vineyard’s potential. The varying altitudes, ranging from 250 to 400 meters, create a unique environment that influences the ripening process and flavor development of the grapes. This microclimate, coupled with the soil composition, ensures that Clos du Phoenix can consistently produce wines of superior quality.
Vineyard and Winemaking Practices
A Family-Owned Legacy
Clos du Phoenix is exclusively owned by the Chédid and Anid families, who have dedicated themselves to crafting fine wines that honor their heritage. The vineyard spans 6 hectares and is home to 18,000 vines, with a focus on quality over quantity. The families’ commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the winemaking process.
Traditional Winemaking Methods
The winery adheres to traditional winemaking methods that emphasize manual harvesting and meticulous attention to detail. Under the supervision of French oenologist Yvan Jobard, a native of Burgundy, Clos du Phoenix ensures that each step of the winemaking process is executed with precision. Jobard’s expertise and guidance contribute to the creation of wines that reflect both the traditional craftsmanship and innovative techniques of modern winemaking.
Organic Certification
Clos du Phoenix earned its organic certification for the grapes in 2013 and for all wines in 2016. This commitment to organic practices underscores the winery’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The organic certification ensures that the grapes are cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, further enhancing the purity and quality of the wines.
Grapes and Varietals
Selected Varietals
Clos du Phoenix carefully selects grape varietals based on a thorough field study and the guidance of European specialists. The vineyard grows a range of varietals that contribute to the complexity and richness of the wines:
- Marsanne
- Chardonnay
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Syrah
- Mourvèdre
- Grenache
These varietals are chosen for their ability to thrive in the unique terroir of the Batroun region, producing wines with distinctive flavors and aromas.
Pruning and Harvesting
Pruning is a critical step in managing yield and ensuring the quality of the grapes. Clos du Phoenix employs careful pruning techniques during the winter months to control the quantity of fruit produced. Weeding is performed both by hand and mechanically, with no herbicides used, maintaining the integrity of the vineyard.
Grapes are harvested progressively between August and September, depending on the year’s conditions. This approach ensures that each grape reaches optimal maturity, contributing to the overall quality of the wines.
Winemaking Techniques
Malolactic Fermentation
All wines at Clos du Phoenix undergo malolactic fermentation, a process that converts malic acid into lactic acid, resulting in a softer, more rounded flavor profile. This technique enhances the complexity and mouthfeel of the wines.
Stainless Steel Tanks and Indigenous Yeasts
The use of stainless steel tanks helps preserve the fresh, fruity character of the wines. Clos du Phoenix employs indigenous yeasts, which are naturally occurring yeasts from the grapes, rather than pre-selected commercial yeasts. This choice contributes to the uniqueness and authenticity of the wines.
Minimal Sulfites and Light Filtration
The winery uses a minimal quantity of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), less than 50% of the maximum allowed amount, to maintain the purity of the wine while ensuring stability. Light filtration is employed to preserve the fruity taste and natural characteristics of the wines.
Tasting and Pairing
Serving Recommendations
Clos du Phoenix wines are best enjoyed at 18˚C and should be well decanted to fully appreciate their complexity. These wines pair excellently with tangy barbecue dishes and a variety of other flavorful foods, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Conclusion
Clos du Phoenix represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in Lebanese winemaking. With its unique terroir, organic practices, and meticulous attention to detail, the winery produces wines that embody the spirit of the Batroun region. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a curious explorer of Lebanese viticulture, Clos du Phoenix offers a remarkable taste of Lebanon’s rich winemaking heritage. Discover the exceptional wines of Clos du Phoenix and experience the passion and dedication that define this distinguished winery.
