Beqaa (Bekaa) Valley is the wine powerhouse of Lebanon, where all the major wineries have their vineyards, including Chateau Ksara (Lebanon’s largest winery with over 60% of the country's production), Château Kefraya, Cave Kouroum, Château Musar and thetrendy boutique winery ofChâteau Massaya.
Vines in Beqaa Valley are grown at a high altitude of around 1,000m, and hence they can benefit from a unique micro-climate of dry summers, cool nights, and abundant rainfall. Harvest is typically in the middle of September (much later than other southern Mediterranean vineyards).
Musar is one of the legends of the wine world, and unknown outside Lebanon until ‘discovered’ in the 1970s. Founded by Gaston Hochar in 1930 and brought to prominence by his son Serge, the wine was made for many years in the middle of a war zone. The wine can last for decades, but the indomitable Serge passed away at the end of 2014.
Wild, funky, spicy and succulent. Bright and intense despite a decade of age, the Cabernet Sauvignon gives structure but does not dominate. Earthy, blueberry notes come from Carignan and Cinsault. The 2003 vintage is even more sumptuous than usual. Drink now to 2035. This suits rich, steeped food. Think cassoulet, duck confit, or a spicier lamb tagine. Definitely decant, probably two hours in advance. Mark Pardoe MW, Wine Director
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Wild, funky, spicy and succulent. Bright and intense despite a decade of age, the Cabernet Sauvignon gives structure but does not dominate. Earthy, blueberry notes come from Carignan and Cinsault. The 2003 vintage is even more sumptuous than usual. Drink now to 2035. This suits rich, steeped food. Think cassoulet, duck confit, or a spicier lamb tagine. Definitely decant, probably two hours in advance.
Mark Pardoe MW, Wine Director