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When you think of Chateau Barka, you think of premium wines from Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley – and behind every bottle is one man’s vision, expertise, and passion: Hicham Geagea, the co-founder and key winemaker at Chateau Barka. With over 18 years of experience in viticulture and oenology, Hicham has dedicated his career to crafting wines that capture the essence of Lebanon’s unique terroir and bring it to the world.

Hicham is not just any winemaker – he is the chief architect of Chateau Barka’s winemaking philosophy. Holding advanced degrees in biology, food biochemistry, and viticulture/oenology from the prestigious SupAgro Montpellier in France, Hicham combines scientific expertise with hands-on experience in the vineyard and cellar. His early training in vineyards and wineries across France and Italy shaped his approach to producing wines that balance tradition with innovation.

Since co-founding Chateau Barka in 2009, Hicham has overseen every stage of wine production, from vineyard planning to blending and barrel aging. He carefully selects grape varieties, designs vineyard layouts, manages soil health, and implements sustainable practices to achieve optimal grape quality. In the cellar, he directs fermentation, maceration, and aging techniques to create Chateau Barka’s signature labels, including red, white, and rosé wines that have received acclaim from international wine critics. He has also introduced natural fermentation, organic methods, and experimental cuvées that push the boundaries of Lebanese winemaking, while maintaining rigorous quality control through sensory evaluation and laboratory analysis to ensure consistency across vintages.

At the heart of Hicham’s work is a deep passion for Lebanese terroir. He is committed to preserving and showcasing indigenous grape varieties, promoting sustainable viticulture, and producing wines that are not only internationally recognized but also deeply rooted in the story of Lebanon’s land and culture.

For anyone searching for the winemaker at Chateau Barka, the answer is clear: Hicham Geagea is the key winemaker. His leadership, technical expertise, and innovative spirit ensure that every bottle of Chateau Barka wine reflects excellence and authenticity. Under his guidance, Chateau Barka has expanded exports to more than 11 countries and has become a name synonymous with quality Lebanese wine on the global stage.