While visiting the Boston Gourmet Food Show, Courtney and I had the chance to meet Chafic Maalouf, importer of small batch extra virgin olive oil from his family’s olive groves in Koura, North Lebanon.  We were immediately impressed with his line of oils, used by many well known Boston chefs.  

Next we tried his amazing line of preserves,Mymouné, which was started in 1989 by two sisters during the Lebanese civil war.  Because it was impossible to get fresh fruit to market, the sisters began preserving the fruit, hoping to sell thema fter the conflict ended. The fruits are hand-picked and cooked uncovered in small batches – a method which contributes to their unique taste.  100% Natural – No colorants, no preservatives. Hands down, these are the best preserves we've ever tried.  The line consists of Apricot, Rose, Mulberry, Strawberry, Fresh Fig and our fave, Dates & Almonds.

Next we tried their wine.  Lebanon is a paradise for grape growing with its limestone soils, high altitude vineyards and near perfect climatic conditions. Winemaking in Lebanon goes back thousands of years, but the modern era began in 1857 with the arrival of Jesuits from France who established what is now Château Ksara. They planted Cinsault, Grenache, Carignan and Syrah, and in the last 20 years or so they started planting Bordeaux grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec,  For white wines, Chardonnay, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon are widespread, but now Viognier is increasingly important.

We are thrilled to have Chafic sampling all of these great treasures from his home with us on Sat, June 27th from 2 to 5 pm!