Iris Domain is a family wine project that began in 2003 on terraced land near Btalloun and Bhamdoun in Mount Lebanon. The first vines were a gift of a few hundred plants from Naji Boutros of neighboring Château Belle-Vue, used to bring the family terraces back to life. Today the estate covers just under five hectares of clay loam and limestone between 1,000 and 1,200 meters, farmed organically, and all wine comes from its own grapes in small micro-cuvées. The winery is named after the Iris sofarana, a rare iris found only on Mount Lebanon. Owner Sarmad Salibi started a project in 2013 to reproduce the flower, the new irises now grow in the vineyard, and part of every bottle sold goes toward restoring it.
Iris Domain at a glance
- Wine project started in 2003
- Organic, estate-grown micro-cuvées
- Vineyards at 1,000 to 1,200 meters
- Named after the endangered Iris sofarana
Who is behind Iris Domain
- Sarmad Salibi (Owner). Source: irisdomain.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Iris Domain?
It is named after the Iris sofarana, a rare iris native to Mount Lebanon, and part of each bottle's sale supports its restoration.
Where are the vineyards?
Near Btalloun and Bhamdoun in Mount Lebanon, at 1,000 to 1,200 meters.
Are the wines organic?
Yes. The winery describes its production as all-estate and organic.