Soapbox: Michael Karam on wine’s political power

Friday read: The forging of a Lebanese hero

Elie Maamari has been spreading the Lebanese wine gospel for 42 years. The winemaker turned export director for Chateau Ksara met his compatriot, Michael Karam, during a brief visit to London at a time when their country was once again caught up in conflict.

Five minutes with Talal Madi, Ixsir

Over a preview of Ixsir’s 2024 vintage, the Lebanese winery’s CEO shares some insights with James Bayley.

IXSIR powers through Lebanon challenges to declare healthy vintage

Leading Lebanese winery IXSIR is reporting a “healthy” 2020 vintage, despite the harvest beginning within days of the deadly explosion that rocked Beirut and increasing Covid-19 restrictions.

Bid for Beirut relief nudges £22,000

The Bid for Beirut fundraiser has raised close on £22,000 over the UK bank holiday weekend, with donations still coming in.

Bid for Beirut auction organises relief for Lebanon

A new auction to provide much-needed relief for Lebanon’s struggling wine sector has drawn support from the UK wine trade, after a massive explosion decimated the country’s main port on 4 August.

Berkmann adds Lebanese producer Château Ksara

Berkmann Wine Cellars has signed a deal as the exclusive UK distributors of Château Ksara.

Hallgarten adds Lebanon’s Château Oumsiyat

Hallgarten Wines has added Lebanese producer Château Oumsiyat to its portfolio.

Académie Internationale du Vin appoints Lebanese winemaker

Prestigious wine body Académie Internationale du Vin has announced Elie Maamari - long-serving winemaker and export manager for leading Lebanese winery Château Ksara, has joined the fold.