Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Carignan -
75cl * Vegan, Organic & Sustainable * 13.5% ABV * Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
Chateau Musar is undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic wineries. Since its founding in 1930 by Gaston Hochar, the family have acquired a reputation for producing outstanding wines inspired by Lebanon’s 6,000-year winemaking heritage. It was the late Serge Hochar, Gaston's son, who perfected the formula for Chateau Musar’s Red blends and helped build their icon status. He was the first person to be awarded the title of Decanter Magazine’s ‘Man of the Year’ in 1984.
Chateau Musar Red is an equal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Cinsault from vineyards near the Bekaa Valley villages of Aana and Kefraya, grown on gravelly soils over limestone. The growing season for the 2019 vintage was an unusual one for Lebanon, with record rainfall from December to February, following several years of drought prior. Despite a delayed bud-burst, it proved to be a 'perfect year' for their reds. According to the winemakers, it seemed that 'rainy years enhance red fermentation, providing complexity'.
Each variety was aged in French oak for 12 months before blending and bottling in the winter of 2022. The resulting wine is dark and broody, with plenty of spice. Blood red in colour with cranberry, black olives and cloves on the nose, the palate is rich and concentrated with notes of cherries and plums. Balanced acidity and fine tannins bring structure and complexity. The finish is smooth and peppery. With 7 years of age upon release, it is already a developed and mature wine.
After careful decanting, the wine should be allowed to breathe for at least a few hours, though ideally the entire day, and served at 18°C with roast meats, grilled lamb, casseroles, game, and mature cheeses.