At a glance

Producer

Domaine des Tourelles

Region

Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Grape variety

Carignan

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$15-$20

Tasting profile

Red cherry, dried herbs, earth, and subtle spice notes with medium tannins.

Evolution: Fruit notes will soften and integrate; earthiness and savory notes will become more pronounced.

At peak: Balanced with developed complexity combining dried fruit, leather, and forest floor nuances.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity balancing fruit and earthiness

Tannins

Medium, fine-grained tannins providing structure

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

8-10 years from vintage date

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2029

Optimal window

2023 to 2030

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking range

Current condition

Fresh fruit character with developing complexity

The wine combines moderate tannin and acidity with quality fruit concentration from old-vine Carignan, suitable for medium-term aging. The 2021 vintage’s freshness helps balance the natural earthiness and spice allowing a complex evolution through the late 2020s.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, Middle Eastern spices, hearty stews, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To open up the aromatics and soften medium tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Domaine des Tourelles employs water conservation measures, solar energy use, and minimal pesticide interventions. Vineyards are dry-farmed where possible to minimize irrigation.

The producer demonstrates strong commitment to environmental stewardship with sustainable practices typical of Bekaa Valley wineries. Though lacking formal certification, the estate’s use of natural resources carefully and focus on energy efficiency contribute to an above-average sustainability profile.