A wonderfully distinctive and mature Lebanese red from the legendary Château Musar, the 2004 vintage is a characterful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Carignan grown in the high-altitude vineyards of the Bekaa Valley. Complex, savoury and unmistakably individual, it combines ripe Mediterranean fruit with earthy spice, freshness and the intriguing evolved character for which Château Musar has become renowned.
Tasting Notes:
Deep garnet in colour with mature brick-red highlights, the nose is wonderfully expressive, revealing aromas of red cherry, plum and dried berries alongside notes of leather, tobacco, dried herbs and warm spice. With time in the glass, more complex nuances of cedar, earth, balsamic herbs and dried flowers emerge. The palate is elegant and layered, with mature red fruit, fine tannins and vibrant acidity balanced by savoury, earthy complexity. The finish is long and distinctive, with lingering notes of spice, dried fruit and forest floor.
Winemaking:
Produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Carignan grown in the Bekaa Valley at around 1,000 metres above sea level. The varieties are fermented separately with minimal intervention before maturation in French oak barrels. The wines are subsequently blended and bottled without fining or filtration, followed by several years of bottle ageing at the Château before release. This patient approach allows the individual varieties to integrate while developing Musar’s famously complex and evolving character.
Food Pairing:
An excellent match for slow-roasted lamb, venison, duck and richly flavoured beef dishes. It also pairs beautifully with Middle Eastern dishes, grilled aubergine, wild mushrooms, spiced lentils and mature cheeses. As mature Château Musar can develop significant sediment, careful decanting before serving is recommended.
ABV: 14%
