Chateau Musar is the winery that introduced Lebanese wine to the world. Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar and made famous by his son Serge, who kept harvesting even through the years of civil war, it makes wine at Ghazir, north of Beirut, from high-altitude vineyards in the Bekaa Valley. The Musar Jeune range is its youngest and most approachable expression, made to be enjoyed without long waiting.
The red is a blend of Cinsault, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon from organic vineyards at about 1,000 metres. It ferments in concrete vats and sees no oak; it is bottled unfiltered, in line with the estate's low-intervention philosophy. Cinsault, a historic Bekaa grape, gives the wine its bright, fruity texture.
2021 was an even vintage with no extremes, and a hot July helped ripening. In the glass: strawberry, cherry, earthy notes and a touch of black pepper, soft tannins and good freshness. Drink it young with grilled meats, kebabs, cured meats, pasta with meat sauce and medium-aged cheeses.
At a glance: Cinsault, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon · 13% ABV · 0.75 l · Chateau Musar, Bekaa Valley (Lebanon)