Beirut, Lebanon: The Lebanese wine community gathered to celebrate the official opening of Levain, the first bar and boutique in Lebanon fully dedicated to Lebanese wine. The event brought together winery owners from across the country, along with representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture and Tourism, the Municipality of Beirut, and the Union Vinicole du Liban (UVL), in addition to public figures, partners, media representatives, and friends of the industry.
Held in the heart of Monot, Ashrafieh, the opening marked the beginning of a new chapter for Lebanese wine appreciation. Levain was conceived as a space where wine, craftsmanship, community, and storytelling meet, a living and evolving tribute to Lebanon’s rich viticultural heritage.
In her speech, the representative of the Minister of Agriculture and Head of the Agricultural Industries Department, Engineer Mariam Eid, emphasized that the wine sector serves as “a model to follow.” She noted that the launch of Levain adds new value to ongoing efforts to develop the industry and strengthen its local presence. Eid also affirmed the ministry’s readiness to cooperate and support initiatives that help ensure quality and adherence to administrative and regulatory standards.
In his opening remarks, Founder Selim Yasmine welcomed guests and emphasized the deep personal and cultural significance of the project.
“Levain is more than a bar, more than a boutique, and more than a new address in Monot. Levain is a culture,” he said, highlighting the dual symbolism behind the name: the natural sourdough starter levain, representing life, transformation, and shared nourishment.
He added: “Lebanon deserved a space entirely dedicated to its wine… a place where every bottle tells a story of terroir, of craftsmanship, of hope. Tonight, Levain becomes your home.”
Levain builds on the legacy of 209 Lebanese Wine, founded nearly a decade ago by Yasmine to give local winemakers a stronger voice and a direct link to wine lovers in Lebanon and abroad.
The new venue represents the natural evolution of that mission, offering:
- The largest by-the-glass Lebanese wine selection in the country
- A curated wine boutique highlighting producers from all regions
- Opportunities for guests to taste, learn, explore, and connect
- A platform for winemakers to launch new vintages, host masterclasses, and engage with the public
Yasmine praised the resilience of Lebanon’s winemakers, who continue to create beauty despite economic and social challenges, and reaffirmed Levain’s commitment to honoring their work daily.
“Wine is one of Lebanon’s greatest cultural ambassadors… and we intend to honor it every day.”