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).
With Chateau Musar, Serge Hochar almost single-handedly established the reputation of Lebanese wine worldwide… an achievement which his many compatriots who now make wine there are quick to acknowledge. Grace under pressure par excellence, and given the ambient climate, a very graceful wine. The 2004 vintage is a classic Musar, with creamy, composed scents marked by lifted aromas of liqueur de kirsch and wild strawberries. The palate is broad and indulgent, with hints of bitter chocolate. Made up of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and a little Carignan, this is an excellent foil to the cuisine of the region. Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer, October 2011
Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer, October 2011