Chateau Musar 2003, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, 75cl

Chateau Musar is one of the Middle East’s most historic and iconic wines, renowned for its distinctive character and remarkable longevity. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Cinsault from mature bushvines near the Bekaa Valley villages of Aana and Kefraya, it combines ripe fruit with savoury spice and complexity. Perfect with slow-roasted lamb, grilled meats, venison or richly spiced Middle Eastern dishes.

"Deep ruby in colour, it has a complex, intriguing array of aromas: toasted bread, cigar box, fresh tea, plums and Eastern spices. On the palate, there are mature fruits: plums, figs and cherries with hints of tea leaves and dark chocolate. The wine is intense; the first taste releasing complex notes of currants, cherries and spice, with a hint of game and finishing with a cleansing acidity. Our first indications were that the 2003 vintage would be full-bodied, powerful with great length and 7 years later upon release in 2010, we were proven right: these are the defining characteristics of 2003."  Chateau Musar

"The 2003 Chateau Musar is a very pretty, aromatic wine. Rosewater, dried flowers, orange peel and cinnamon all open up in the bouquet. The 2003 is an attractive, translucent Musar that should drink well for another decade or more. Ripe red cherry, kirsch, hard candy and mint linger. The 2003 opens up nicely, but remains a decidedly delicate in build. Drink 2020-2028."  Antonio Galloni, Vinous, October 2020