In Bond Fine Wine. 2017 Musar, Lebanon, Lebanon. Red lebanon in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 90/100 (NM). Drinking window: 2023–2040. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Musar Red is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Cinsault from vineyards near the Bekaa Valley villages of Aana and Kefraya on gravelly soils over limestone. Planted from the 1930s onwards, yields are low from these mature bushvines (average age: 40 years): Between 15 to 35hl per hectare. Often referred to as 'the Lafite of Lebanon', each vintage from this iconic estate has its own distinct character owing to a minimal intervention approach. These are wines with a remarkable ageing ability that require additional time in bottle to show their full potential. The best vintages are comparable to beautifully aged Bordeaux but are available at a fraction of the price.
Neal Martin (NM) — 90/100 · Vinous, 01/04/2023 · Drink 2023-2040
The 2017 Chateau Musar has a perfumed bouquet with well-defined plummy red fruit, fireside embers and pressed flower scents. A hint of VA in the background gives the aromatics a welcome kick. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and well-judged acidity, harmonious, not powerful, yet full of flavor. A pleasing bitterness surfaces towards the finish, with moderate persistence and a residua…