A mid a global recession and a decline in wine consumption worldwide, Lebanese are raising their glasses as the country’s $25 million wine sector continues to grow at a steady pace. But experts say that despite Lebanon’s ideal climate for viticulture and a high level of expertise, the sector is still not living up to its potential. World wine consumption dropped by 0.8 percent last year, according to the International Organization of Vine and Wine. But New World wine consumption has increased, and so has Lebanon’s, rising by 1.5 percent during the same period. “I think people are searching for a new taste. The wine consumer is always looking for a new product, and Lebanon is benefiting,” says Lebanese restaurant consultant Nagi Morkos. “Worldwide, there is a trend toward ethnic wine and food.” With domestic consumption still relatively low, the country has relied on exports for most of its profits.
