For Azmi, growing up in Lebanon in the 70’s and 80’s was not easy as the region was in turmoil and conflicts boiled. But this small country located on the Mediterranean Sea between Syria and Palestine (Israel) is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, the most delicious flavors, and the friendliest people on the planet. Azmi’s childhood memories are full of beautiful gatherings with family, friends, and homemade meals, oblivious to what was going on in the tiny country. Upon his first visit to Northern Michigan as an adult, Azmi was amazed by the beauty and bounty of the land. The abundance of grape vines immediately reminded Azmi of the delicious stuffed grape leaves his mother made for him as a child. Did millions of Michigan grape leaves go to waste every year?
Since moving to Traverse City, Azmi’s Middle Eastern accent often prompts curious questions. Upon explaining he grew up in Lebanon, he’s typically welcomed with, “Oh my gosh! I love Lebanese food! You should open a restaurant!”. Though a welcome response, Azmi never felt a restaurant was the right fit for him and his family. Years passed but the idea stuck with him. Every year as the vines awoke from winter Azmi was reminded of his love for Lebanese food. When the pandemic hit and life slowed down for a while, Azmi and his family took time to reflect on what they wanted their mission to be with this new venture. Living on the estate, surrounded by the vineyard and thousands of lavender plants, Azmi really wanted to provide an opportunity for people to experience a taste of Lebanese culture, connect with family and friends, and enjoy the outdoors. What better way than to create a “picnic-style” box with a variety of dishes and flavors? Pair with a glass of wine from Brys Estate or Lavender Lemonade from the Secret Garden. Sit amongst the vines and fields of flowers or enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. Our hope is that Mezza Box will not only share a small taste of Lebanese culture with the community, but it will bring people closer together and unite them with the beautiful landscape around us.
We are fortunate enough to be donating 10% of proceeds from Mezza Box sales to fighting hunger.
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
The Brys Estate Tasting Room opened their doors in 2005 and have only grown since then. Their vineyard contains eight varietals of grapes with over 111 acres of land and over 40,000 vines. Brys Estate is built on a foundation of family and tradition. Brys Estate wines have won over 500 medals in national and international wine competitions.
Secret Garden at Brys Estate
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
The Secret Garden at Brys Estate began as a dream of the Brys Family back in the early 2010s after a trip to French Wine Country. There, they saw vines growing alongside stretches of vibrant lavender. In 2013, the first test crop of lavender was planted and in 2016, the gift shop opened. Now, the estate is home to over 6,000 lavender plants and 11 varietals. Visit in early-July to see the lavender in full bloom!