Obaideh, also known as Obeideh, is a white grape variety native to Lebanon. It is one of the oldest grape varieties in the world and holds significant historical and cultural importance. Obaideh gets its name from 'abed', an Arabic word meaning 'to worship', hinting at its venerable origins and antiquity.
The Obaideh vine thrives in high-altitude vineyards, typically between 900m-1,200m above sea level. Grape clusters tend to be large and closely packed, with a medium-sized, white-yellow berry sporting a fairly thick skin. This sturdy skin helps the grape withstand Lebanon's harsh climate, rendering it resilient to heat and dry winds.
One of the distinguishing factors of the Obaideh grape is its potential to age gracefully. This grape’s high sugar and acid content, coupled with its indigenous yeast populations, make it ideal for producing sparkling wines with significant ageing potential. Notably, the Obaideh grape is used in the production of Lebanon's famous wine, Chateau Musar, renowned for its peculiar groove and depth.
The flavour profile of Obaideh-grape wines is often described as a delicate synthesis of stone fruit, citrus, and floral notes, layered with underlying minerality. It creates well-structured wines with good acidity and body.
In recent years, viticulturists and winemakers have started to revive interest in native grape varieties, and Obaideh has benefited from this trend, with its historical significance and unique taste attributes gaining recognition. Despite the challenges associated with Lebanon's viticulture, such as political instability and climatic fluctuations, the survival and re-emergence of the Obaideh grape is testament to the resilience and adaptability of this ancient variety, and the dedication of those who cultivate it.
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