Château Ksara Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Region and Vineyards

Situated in the Bekaa Valley, the cradle of Lebanon’s winemaking tradition, Château Ksara benefits from a unique terroir. The valley’s high altitudes, ranging between 900 and 1,000 meters above sea level, provide cool nights that preserve the grapes’ acidity and warm days that ensure full phenolic ripening. This Mediterranean climate, combined with limestone-rich soils, contributes to wines with excellent structure and minerality.

The Cabernet Sauvignon used in this vintage comes from Ksara’s best-sited vineyards, where the vines are cultivated using sustainable viticulture practices. Handpicking ensures that only the finest grapes, at optimal ripeness, make their way into the winery, reflecting the estate’s commitment to quality.

Winemaking

This vintage was crafted with precision to highlight the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon in the Bekaa Valley’s unique terroir. After harvesting, the grapes were destemmed and underwent fermentation at 28°C with regular remontage (pump overs) to extract color and tannins while preserving aromatic intensity. The fermentation lasted for 15 to 20 days, followed by separation of the free-run wine from the press wine.

The wine underwent malolactic fermentation to soften acidity and add depth before being aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, with 50% new oak imparting delicate notes of vanilla and spice. The careful balance of aging in oak enhances the wine’s complexity while retaining its vibrant fruit character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: A deep purple hue, indicative of its youthful vibrancy and structure.
• Aromas: Expressive aromas of blackcurrant, raspberries, and subtle hints of vanilla, spice, and leather.
• Palate: Rich and elegant, with layers of dark fruit flavors complemented by fine, well-integrated tannins. The finish is long and balanced, with lingering notes of spice and oak that enhance its complexity.

Did you know?

Château Ksara is Lebanon’s oldest winery, established in 1857, and played a significant role in reviving Lebanon’s winemaking tradition. The estate is known for its underground Roman caves, which naturally regulate temperature and humidity, providing the perfect conditions for wine aging.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Beef Bourguignon: The wine’s structure and tannins match perfectly with the richness and depth of this classic dish.
• Duck breast with cherry sauce: The fruity and savory notes of the wine harmonize beautifully with the cherry glaze.
• Wild mushroom risotto: Highlights the wine’s earthy undertones and adds a creamy complement to its elegant tannins.
• Roasted lamb with rosemary and garlic: The wine’s bold character and complexity enhance the flavors of the meat and herbs.

History of Château Ksara

Established in 1857 by Jesuit priests, Château Ksara began as a mission to revive Lebanon’s winemaking tradition. The priests introduced French winemaking techniques, planting Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and other international grape varieties in the fertile Bekaa Valley. The winery quickly became a cornerstone of the country’s wine industry.

In 1973, the estate transitioned to private ownership under Lebanese families, who continued to modernize operations while preserving Ksara’s heritage. Today, Château Ksara is one of the leading producers in Lebanon, exporting wines to more than 40 countries. The estate’s historic underground Roman caves, discovered in 1898, are a hallmark of its legacy, providing ideal conditions for aging wines naturally.

Region and Vineyards

Château Ksara is located in the heart of the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon’s premier wine-growing region. The valley’s high altitude (900–1,000 meters) ensures cool nights and warm days, a Mediterranean climate perfect for achieving balance between ripeness and acidity in the grapes. Its limestone-rich soils enhance the wines’ structure and minerality.

The estate’s vineyards span over 450 hectares, planted with both indigenous and international grape varieties. Ksara employs sustainable farming practices to protect the terroir and ensure the production of high-quality grapes. Key varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache, and Chardonnay, among others.

Wine Range of Château Ksara

Château Ksara offers a diverse portfolio of wines:

• White Wines: Crisp, aromatic whites like Blanc de Blancs and Reserve du Couvent Blanc, highlighting vibrant acidity and elegance.
• Red Wines: Structured and complex reds, including the flagship Château Ksara, Reserve du Couvent Rouge, and Cuvée du Troisième Millénaire, showcasing the estate’s mastery of blending.
• Rosé Wines: Fresh and vibrant, with a focus on balance and fruit purity, such as the Sunset Rosé.
• Fortified and Sweet Wines: Including the iconic Vin d’Or, which balances sweetness with a fresh finish.

Did you know?

The Roman caves beneath Château Ksara, discovered by accident in 1898, are over 2 kilometers long and naturally maintain the perfect temperature and humidity for aging wines. These caves have become a significant historical and touristic site in Lebanon.