Lebanese winemaker Chateau Ksara has launched the first white wine to be produced only from Lebanese grape variety Merwah.

Usually Merwah grapes are blended with other grapes, such as Chardonnay or another Lebanese grape called Obeideh. Competing Lebanese winemaker Chateau Musar is well-known for wines produced with a blend of Obeideh and Merwah, including its Chateau Musar white.

The winery explained it has been experimenting with producing a wine made only with Merwah many years ago and they are now happy with the product, which will become an established part of the range.

Chateau Ksara Merwah has 12.5% alcohol by volume, is aged for one month and does not undergo oak treatment. It has aromas of citrus and white flowers, as well as some mineral notes. It tastes of tropical fruit with undertones of guava, lime and melon.

Chateau Ksara is one of the largest and oldest wineries in Lebanon. It was founded in 1857 by Jesuit monks who ran the vineyards until 1973 when control was relinquished to a consortium of local businessmen. It aims to combine traditional and modern, innovative techniques.

Its vineyards are located in the Bekaa Valley and benefit from a microclimate provided by the mountains.

Many of its wines are produced from French grapes, which were originally planted at the end of World War One when France governed Lebanon in keeping with the Treaty of Versailles.

The winery produces approximately 2.8 million bottles a year and exports its wines to over 40 countries worldwide.

The new Merwah wine will be distributed in the UK by Hallgarten and Novrun Wines and will be available in the on and off-trades.