Château Musar 2012, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon - 1.5l

Lebanon may not be the first territory that trips off the tongue when discussing leading lights in wine manufacture. Chateau Musar Red will make a mockery of any first impressions. Coloured a deep and pleasing burgundy, this 2012 vintage offers an aroma of fruit, spice and liquorice. This is paired with a bold and deeply fruity taste and finish, with a hint of leather and mocha that is sure too linger. The 2012 growth was particularly interesting at Chateau Musar thanks to a wide array of contrasting weather conditions, leading to a unique taste sensation than no other year, or manufacturer, could hope to replicate.

GRAPE

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, Cinsault

WHAT IT GOES WITH

This wine is best enjoyed with grilled or roasted red meat, though it will also pleasingly accompany strong and mature cheese. For the best possible pairing, decant your Chateau Musar  ahead of serving and allow it to breathe for around an hour.

YEAR

2012

ABOUT THE VINEYARD

Gaston Hochar was the mastermind behind Chateau Musar, taking ownership of the vineyard at the tender age off 20 in 1930. Having spent time in Bordeaux, Gaston intended to blend the art of French winemaking with traditional Lebanese techniques. Serving in France during WWII, Gaston's wines captured the imagination of a worldwide audience. This continued under the stewardship his son Serge, who took control of the business in 1959. Serge sadly passed away in 2014, but Chateau Musar remains a family affair - Gaston is still adulated with the running of the winery, while Serge's brother, son, nephew and great-niece are all involved in this celebrated vineyard.