The wine’s deep ruby hue reflects the optimal growing conditions of 2018. The year began with significant rainfall and snow, totalling 355mm in January and an additional 162mm in February, providing ample irrigation for the soils. A mild spring followed, with further rainfall supporting vine growth and a surge in temperatures in mid-April encouraging bud break. May and June were unusually wet, providing ideal conditions during the blooming period.
Summer brought the characteristic heat of the Bekaa Valley. July reached average highs of 35°C, and a heatwave in August saw temperatures soar to 40°C. The harvest began on 4 September with Cinsault, revealing dried grapes with unexpectedly high sugar content—a rare occurrence. Cabernet Sauvignon and Carignan required close monitoring during fermentation, with malolactic fermentation for some varietals extending well into the season. Each varietal was fermented using natural yeasts in concrete vats, then aged for 12 months in French Nevers oak barrels before blending in January 2021. The wine was bottled without fining or filtration during summer 2021.
The result is a wine of deep garnet colour with aromas of dried cherries and mature red fruits. On the palate, it offers rich layers of cranberries, raisins, and dates, complemented by a smoky character with subtle hints of liquorice. The wine’s six years of ageing upon release provide maturity and depth while retaining freshness and energy.
Chateau Musar 2018 pairs well with hearty dishes such as slow-cooked meats or rich vegetarian recipes. It complements robust flavours but is equally suited to simpler accompaniments like aged hard cheeses. Serving at a cool 16–18°C enhances its profile.
The Bekaa Valley, where Chateau Musar’s vineyards are located, is one of the world’s most distinctive wine regions. Several factors contribute to its suitability for grape cultivation, underpinning the quality and character of wines like Chateau Musar. The valley benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool nights. This combination allows grapes to ripen fully while maintaining their natural acidity, which is crucial for producing balanced wines. The significant temperature variation between day and night, often around 15°C, promotes the development of complex flavours and aromas. This diurnal range enables the vines to recover from the heat of the day, fostering a gradual and consistent ripening process.
Situated at approximately 1,000 metres above sea level, the Bekaa Valley’s elevation provides a cooler environment that mitigates the intense heat of lower altitudes. This helps preserve the acidity and freshness of the grapes. The valley is flanked by Mount Lebanon to the west and the Anti-Lebanon mountains to the east, creating a unique microclimate. These natural barriers shield the region from harsh weather and desert influences, offering a stable and protected growing environment.
The Bekaa Valley features diverse soil types, including limestone, clay, gravel, shale, and terra rossa. These soils provide excellent drainage and retain essential nutrients, both of which contribute to the complexity and individuality of the wines produced in the region. High lime content in the soil enhances the structural elegance of the wine, adding depth and minerality to the final product.
Viticulture in the Bekaa Valley dates back thousands of years, with evidence of wine production in the region’s ancient past. The introduction of French grape varieties during the French Mandate period left a lasting impact on the valley’s vineyards. Today, both international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and indigenous grapes like Obaideh thrive in the region’s unique terroir.
Chateau Musar has earned its iconic status for several reasons. Since its founding in 1930, it has stood as one of Lebanon's oldest and most established wineries, continuing to produce wine through decades of political instability. The winery persevered even during the Lebanese Civil War, producing wine every year except 1976. This resilience has cemented Chateau Musar’s legendary reputation.
The estate has practiced organic viticulture since its inception and became officially certified organic in 2006. Following a natural winemaking philosophy, Chateau Musar uses native yeasts for fermentation and minimal sulfur dioxide. The wines are aged extensively before release, with reds spending three years in oak and four more years in bottle.
The winery’s terroir in the Bekaa Valley plays a crucial role in its success. Located at altitudes up to 1,500 metres, the vineyards benefit from cool temperatures that offset the region’s intense heat. Chateau Musar blends international varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon with indigenous grapes such as Obaideh, creating wines of remarkable complexity.
Chateau Musar gained international acclaim at the 1979 Bristol Wine Fair, where the 1967 vintage was named the “discovery of the Fair.” This moment propelled the winery onto the global stage. Today, its wines are celebrated for their ability to age gracefully, maintaining consistency and quality despite challenging conditions.
Tasting Chateau Musar 2018 was an experience that showcased its extraordinary balance. The rich fruitiness of cranberries and dates stood out immediately, layered with the smoky complexity characteristic of Musar’s reds. Fine tannins provided structure without overpowering, and the wine’s acidity carried the flavours effortlessly through a long finish. It was both elegant and satisfying, living up to the storied reputation of the estate.
Chateau Musar is imported to Finland by Arvid Nordquist Wines and is available now for €52.98 at Alko (product number 954277), Chateau Musar 2018 exemplifies the winery’s enduring commitment to quality. Despite the challenges faced by the region, the Hochar family continues to uphold a tradition of winemaking that reflects resilience, heritage, and mastery.
HT
