Arak Brun 10 Years Special Reserve is an aged Lebanese arak produced by Domaine des Tourelles in the Bekaa Valley. It is made from grape spirit obtained primarily from Obeidi, a native Lebanese grape variety cultivated on terraced vineyards, with fresh anise added during the third stage of a traditional triple distillation carried out in copper alembic stills. After distillation, the spirit is matured for ten years in traditional Lebanese clay jars, a method that allows gradual interaction with oxygen while preserving the original character of the distillate without the influence of oak. The use of clay vessels contributes to the development of a smoother texture and a more integrated aromatic profile over time. Bottled at 53% ABV, Arak Brun 10 Years Special Reserve is produced in limited quantities and represents an aged expression of traditional Lebanese arak made according to long-established production methods.
Producer
Domaine des Tourelles is one of the oldest and most historically significant wineries in the Bekaa Valley, founded in 1868 by French engineer François-Eugène Brun. Located in Chtaura, the estate played a pioneering role in establishing modern winemaking in Lebanon, producing both wine and traditional spirits such as arak. The vineyards are situated at elevations of around 1,000 meters, where dry conditions and strong diurnal temperature variation support healthy grapes and the development of complex aromas. The winery follows a philosophy rooted in tradition and minimal intervention, including hand harvesting and fermentation in historic concrete vats that have been in use for generations. The portfolio combines international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah with indigenous Lebanese grapes such as Obeidi and Merweh, reflecting both heritage and adaptability. The wines are typically expressive, structured, and spice-driven, with a balance between ripeness and freshness shaped by the Bekaa terroir.
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