Massaya Lebanese Winery Faqra Lebanon, Bekaa Valley Travel Guide

Massaya Winery, located in the scenic Faqra region of Mount Lebanon, embodies the resurgence of Lebanese winemaking. Founded by the Ghosn brothers, Sami and Ramzi, Massaya's story is one of reclaiming heritage from the ravages of civil war and establishing Lebanon as a producer of world-class wines.In the early 1970s, the Ghosn family acquired land in the Beqaa Valley, planting traditional grape varieties. The Lebanese Civil War forced them to abandon their estate. Returning in the 1990s, the brothers began revitalizing the land, initially producing arak, Lebanon's traditional anise-flavored spirit. A chance encounter led to partnerships with French winemakers, Dominique Hébrard and the Brunier family, who helped them establish Massaya as a winery in 1998.Massaya operates vineyards in two regions: the Beqaa Valley for red grapes and the Faqra Valley for white grapes. The Faqra winery, at 1,700 meters above sea level, specializes in Massaya Blanc, a white wine inspired by Mount Lebanon traditions. Visitors can tour the winery, sample Massaya's wines, and dine at the restaurant, enjoying Lebanese cuisine with mountain views. The winery is also near ancient Roman ruins, offering a blend of cultural and scenic attractions.