Château Ksara Cuvee du Troisieme Millenaire 2017

Region and Vineyards

The Bekaa Valley is Lebanon’s premier wine region, offering a unique terroir for crafting world-class wines. At an altitude of 900–1,000 meters, the valley benefits from a Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights that allow for slow, even ripening of the grapes. The limestone-rich soils contribute minerality and balance to the wine.

The grapes for this blend—Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah—are sourced from Château Ksara’s best vineyards. These varieties thrive in the valley’s terroir, each bringing unique characteristics to the wine. The Petit Verdot adds structure and depth, the Cabernet Franc contributes elegance and aromatic intensity, while the Syrah imparts richness and spice.

Winemaking

This vintage was crafted with precision to showcase the synergy of these three varietals. The grapes were carefully handpicked at optimal ripeness, followed by destemming and fermentation at 28°C. During fermentation, regular remontage (pumping over) and daily assessments ensured optimal extraction of color, tannins, and flavor.

The wine spent 20 to 30 days in tanks before the free-run wine was separated from the press wine. After completing malolactic fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 50% of which were new. This aging process imparted subtle notes of vanilla and spice, adding complexity and balance to the wine’s profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: A dense, deep purple-red robe, highlighting its youthful vibrancy and intensity.
• Aromas: Inviting notes of raspberries, blackcurrant, and a delicate touch of vanilla.
• Palate: Rich and complex, with layers of ripe dark fruit, firm tannins, and a concentrated structure. The wine finishes long and elegantly, leaving hints of spice and oak on the palate.

Did you know?

The name Cuvée du Troisième Millénaire pays homage to the 21st century, symbolizing Château Ksara’s vision for blending tradition with innovation. This wine has won numerous international accolades, including Gold at Mundus Vini and Best of Show at Berlin Wine Trophy, solidifying its place among Lebanon’s finest wines.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Venison stew with root vegetables: Enhances the wine’s rich fruit and earthy undertones.
• Grilled ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce: Matches the wine’s bold structure and spiced finish.
• Duck breast with a red wine reduction: Highlights the wine’s elegance and fruity depth.
• Mushroom risotto with truffle oil: Complements the wine’s complexity and velvety texture.

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.