2010 Chateau Musar - Bekaa Valley (750ml)

Château Musar dates to 1930, when Gaston Hochar founded the estate in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley. It has endured war and difficult commercial times to become one of the world’s most singular wineries, and its bottles are released only when the family judges them ready.

The 2010 vintage was a demanding one. A very dry winter with little snow or rain was followed by a summer heat wave that reached 48.5 degrees Celsius, sharply cutting the harvest. A small supply of Cabernet Sauvignon limited production, and the wine is sold worldwide by allocation. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan were blended after a year in untoasted French Nevers oak barrels. The wine was a late release, held back until it was ready.

Deep garnet in color, it offers raisin, prune, fig, cedar, and cinnamon, with savory herbs and a gamey, singed edge typical of the house. The palate is tightly knit and structured, with vivid acidity and firm tannins, finishing long and dry. Fresh for such a hot year, it is built for the cellar and should reward patience.