Terre Joie: Redefining Lebanese Wines

Lebanon’s wine scene has been flourishing with a new wave of wineries, each aiming to capture the essence of the country’s unique terroirs and create wines that delight and surprise.

Among these innovative producers is Terre Joie, owned and run by the Saade family, who have set out to redefine Lebanese wines.

In this blog post, we will take you on a journey to explore two exceptional wines by Terre Joie: the Cinsault Light and the Aromatix.

A little context about the winery…

A Passion for Elegance:

At the heart of Terre Joie lies a deep passion for elegance in winemaking. The Saade family, the owners of the winery, strive to produce wines that transcend expectations and offer an unexpectedly refined experience. Their dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail can be tasted in every sip of Terre Joie’s creations.

Altitude Terroirs:

Terre Joie stands out among Lebanese wineries by embracing the country’s altitude terroirs. Rather than replicating Bordeaux profiles, they optimize the potential of their high-altitude vineyards. This innovative approach allows the grapes to thrive under specific climate conditions, resulting in wines that carry a distinct character and express the unique qualities of their terroir.

The Saade Family : Joy in Every Bottle

The Saade family is at the heart of Terre Joie, infusing their wines with the essence of joy. Their commitment to crafting beautiful wines stems from their deep connection to their Lebanese roots and their genuine passion for winemaking. The family’s name, Saade, holds a special significance as it translates to “joy” or “happiness” in French. This meaningful coincidence beautifully aligns with their mission to create wines that bring delight to all those who indulge in them.

CinLight 2018:

A White Red

Prepare to have your preconceptions shattered with CinLight 2018, a wine that defies convention by being a “white red”. Traditionally, red wines are served at warmer temperatures, but Terre Joie has crafted the CinLight to be enjoyed chilled, offering a refreshing twist on the typical red wine experience. This innovative approach challenges the norm and invites wine enthusiasts to question their assumptions about red wine.

The captivating charm of Cinsault

Cinsault, originating from France, takes center stage in CinLight 2018. This varietal has found its perfect adaptation in Lebanon’s terroir, particularly in Terre Joie’s vineyards, where 30+ year-old vines thrive at an elevation of 1400m. Known for its captivating charm, Cinsault lends itself to a wine that is both intriguing and approachable, enticing wine lovers with its unique character.

A Delicious Surprise: Richness, Smoothness, and Lightness

CinLight 2018 is a wine that pleasantly surprises the palate with its unexpected combination of richness, smoothness, and lightness. Despite being chilled, it maintains a satisfying texture and delivers a burst of flavors. The wine dances on the taste buds, offering a balance that is both indulgent and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for any mood or occasion.

Food Pairings with Cinlight 2018:

When it comes to pairing CinLight 2018 with food, Lebanese cuisine offers a beautiful blend of flavors. The wine’s smoothness and lightness balance the rich flavors of Hummus. The wine’s versatility and gentle tannins harmonize with the robust flavors of lamb and rice. Whether you’re enjoying stuffed grape leaves, or some falafel at the table, Cinlight 2018 possesses the ability to enhance the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine and elevate any dining experience.

Aromatix Rose 2019:

A Unique Lebanese Wine:

Terre Joie presents the Aromatix Rose 2019, a wine that showcases a unique Lebanese expression of the Grenache grape variety. While Grenache is often associated with French wines, Terre Joie stays true to its Lebanese foundation, crafting a rose that embodies the best of both worlds. This unique interpretation brings a touch of novelty to the Lebanese wine scene, captivating the senses with its character.

Captivating Aromas:

True to its name, the Aromatix Rose 2019 tantalizes the senses with its captivating aromas. From the moment it is poured, the wine releases an irresistible bouquet that fills the air with freshness and vitality. The aromas, impossible to miss, set the stage for an extraordinary tasting experience that promises to delight even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.

Capturing the Terroir:

The magic of the Aromatix Rose 2019 begins in the vineyards, which are strategically located opposite the majestic Mt. Hermon. The vineyards, situated at an altitude of 1,325m, benefit from the cool climate and the mineral-rich soil. These conditions infuse the grapes with a remarkable vibrancy, resulting in a rose that captures the essence of the terroir in every sip.

Bursting With Flavor:

Indulge in a symphony of flavors as you take your first sip of the Aromatix Rose 2019. This refreshing wine bursts with the lusciousness of red fruits, offering a palate filled with strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. The crisp acidity of the wine adds a lively touch, delighting the taste buds and leaving a sensation of pure enjoyment.

The Aromatix: A Refreshing Rose

The Aromatix Rose 2019 stands out as a refreshing wine that embodies the spirit of joy and pleasure. Its nature makes it the perfect choice for warm summer days, relaxed gatherings, or simply as a treat to yourself. With every sip, you are sure to have a highly enjoyable rose experience in aromatic bliss.

Food Pairings with Aromatix Rose 2019:

The Aromatix Rose 2019 is a delightful wine that pairs well with Lebanese food. The wine’s crisp acidity and fruity aroma beautifully complement the herbal notes and zesty flavors of Tabbouleh. For a main course, consider a grilled chicken platter as the wine’s vibrant red fruit flavors pair beautifully well with the tender, smoky chicken.

 

In conclusion, Terre Joie has redefined the wine landscape in Lebanon with their exceptional bottles. The CinLight 2018 captivates with its “white red” concept, delivering a wonderful surprise of richness, smoothness, and lightness. Meanwhile, the Aromatix Rose 2019 enchants with its aromatic bliss and refreshing character. Both wines perfectly embody the vision of Terre Joie, showcasing their meticulous viticulture and winemaking practices. With each sip, one can taste the joy that Terre Joie brings to every bottle.

June 29, 2023