Name: Umami Red 2017
Type: Red Wine
Grapes: Cabernet Franc, Merlot
Year: 2017
Country: Lebanon
Region: Bekaa Valley
Date Consumed: December 19, 2025
A nicely balanced Lebanese red, blending cabernet franc and merlot. I got stimulating notes of cocoa and spices and somewhat subtle hints of leather. This is undoubtedly a wine worth trying again. I believe it would pair nicely with roast beef and slow-cooked meat in general. And maybe that’s what I’ll do next time.
Name: Barka Red Talliya 2019
Type: Red Wine
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
Year: 2019
Country: Lebanon
Region: Bekaa Valley
Date Consumed: December 16, 2025
Another Lebanese red. This one is a nice medium-to-full-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, offering an impressive harmony of notes. I got hints of black fruits, earth, leather, and oak.
It has medium acidity and balanced tannins, which makes it easy for everyone to enjoy.
This was my first time trying anything by Barka. So, now I know that their other wines must also be worth trying.
Cheers.
Name: Domaine des Tourelles Carignan Vieilles Vignes 2021
Type: Red Wine
Grapes: Carignan
Year: 2021
Country: Lebanon
Region: Bekaa Valley
Date Consumed: December 4, 2025
Although not my favorite grape, the 2021 Carignan from Domaine des Tourelles is a straightforward expression of Lebanese Carignan. It is dry, medium-bodied, with medium tannins.
Typical Carignan notes greet you as soon as you take your first sip. You’ll easily find red cherry, raspberry, and the like, and then comes a light touch of earthiness and licorice.
The (unripe) red fruit acidity is there and lends the wine a brighter, slightly lean character.
Overall, it’s a simple and unpretentious Carignan, and there’s not much else I can say about it.
Bored Absurdist 