2018 Chateau Musar - Bekaa Valley (750ml)

Chateau Musar was founded in the 1930s by Gaston Hochar, a native of the Bekaa Valley who returned from Bordeaux inspired to build a winery of his own, and drew early guidance from Ronald Barton of the Bordeaux estate Léoville-Barton. Gaston's son Serge later studied winemaking under the legendary Émile Peynaud before taking over the estate and steering it through the Lebanese Civil War, when the Bekaa Valley itself became a literal frontline. The winery has been organically certified since 2006 and remains a family operation known for a non-interventionist approach and remarkable aging potential.

Chateau Musar Red blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, and Cinsault from mature bush vines near the villages of Aana and Kefraya, planted from the 1930s onward on gravelly, limestone soils. Yields stay low, and each variety ferments separately in cement vats before spending a year in French oak from the forest of Nevers. The three components are blended two years after harvest, rest further in cement, and the finished wine is bottled and cellared for years more, reaching the market a full seven years after the vintage, with each blend built to reflect the character of its year rather than a fixed formula.

The 2018 shows a garnet color and an inviting mix of fresh and dried cherry, raspberry, fig, and date, layered with leather, spice, and a touch of earthiness. Medium to full-bodied, round, and impeccably balanced, with mature tannins and a long, savory finish. It drinks well now and pairs beautifully with kafta, roasted lamb, or other richly spiced dishes.