2003 Chateau Musar - Bekaa Valley (750ml)

Serge Hochar took over winemaking at Château Musar in 1959 after studying oenology in Bordeaux under Émile Peynaud, and his work defined the estate’s distinctive style. Founded in 1930 by his father, Gaston, Musar is now led by the third generation of the Hochar family. Its vineyards became the first in Lebanon to earn organic certification, in 2006.

The grapes for the 2003 come from old bush vines, averaging around 40 years, planted from the 1930s onward in the Bekaa Valley near Aana and Kefraya. Gravelly soils over limestone and yields of 15 to 35 hectoliters per hectare produce small, concentrated crops. A rainy winter and a hot, dry summer gave fruit rich in sugar and acidity. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan was held for about seven years before release.

Deep ruby red in the glass, the wine offers toasted bread, cigar box, tea leaf, plum, and warm spice, along with leather, tobacco, and a savory hint of game. Currant, cherry, fig, and dark chocolate unfold on an intense yet softly textured palate, with anise and coffee in the background. A cleansing acidity keeps the long finish lively.