Massaya - Exceptional Traditional Arak
Massaya is located in the heart of the prestigious terroir of the northeast Bekaa Valley in Lebanon, a region renowned for the richness of its soil and the quality of its grapes. Historically, the Ghosn family owned these lands before 1975. However, following the outbreak of the long Lebanese civil war, the vineyards suffered significant damage, causing production to stop and the family to temporarily exile to the United States. Today, thanks to a meticulous reconstruction of the winery, cellar, and vineyards, accompanied by the recognized expertise of renowned French winemakers such as Dominique Hébrard and Hubert de Boüard from Bordeaux as well as Daniel Brunier from the famous Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe in the Rhône Valley, Massaya has been able to be reborn. This unique Franco-Lebanese collaboration has allowed Massaya to reach an authentic level of excellence. The Hébrard and Brunier families hold 30% of the shares, the rest being proudly retained by the Ghosn family. The estate consists of two complementary vineyards: the main site of Tanaïl, dedicated to the production of exceptional red wines and the making of traditional Arak, and a second high-altitude estate located in Ouyoun el Simane, devoted to the vinification of refined white and rosé wines.
The Massaya Arak, the emblematic drink and flagship product of the estate, is a true icon of the region's traditional spirits, made from distilled grape must according to ancestral methods respectful of local know-how. This exceptional arak is the cornerstone of the Massaya range, whose name means "twilight" in Lebanese, a poetic allusion to the deep blue hue the sky takes at that time of day, an exact reflection of the crystalline color of the Arak. This artisanal spirit is made from the indigenous Obaideh grape variety, known for its subtle aromas and unique character. The distillation is done three times, incorporating organic anise from Syria, a natural ingredient that gives the Arak all its freshness and authenticity. To perfect its aromatic profile, the spirit then ages for several months in traditional clay amphorae, thus optimizing the roundness and finesse of the final product before it is marketed.
Clos des Spiritueux is proud to present this Lebanese gem, a symbol of an exceptional terroir and a rich cultural heritage, ideal for lovers of exceptional spirits and connoisseurs seeking an authentic and refined experience.
