Château Ksara Rouge 2019

Region and Vineyards

Château Ksara is located in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon’s premier wine-producing region. Known for its Mediterranean climate, with hot days and cool nights, the region provides ideal conditions for cultivating Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The vineyards benefit from the valley’s high altitude, ensuring balanced acidity and concentrated flavors.

The soils are a combination of limestone and gravel, allowing excellent drainage while retaining sufficient moisture to support vine health during the dry growing season. Château Ksara’s vineyards reflect the dedication to sustainable viticulture, preserving the natural environment while enhancing the quality of the fruit.

Winemaking

Château Ksara Rouge 2019 is crafted from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, showcasing the hallmark characteristics of these varietals. After harvest, the grapes are destemmed and fermented separately at controlled temperatures between 28°C and 30°C. Maceration lasts 14 to 30 days, ensuring optimal extraction of color, flavor, and tannins.

Following fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged in French oak barrels, with 50% new oak, for 12 months. The final blend is then aged for an additional two years in the winery’s historic Roman caves, adding complexity and refinement before bottling.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep purple with a striking intensity.
• Aroma: Raspberries and blackcurrant dominate the nose, complemented by hints of vanilla, spice, and leather.
• Palate: Rich and elegant with fine, balanced tannins. The wine offers a long and structured finish, seamlessly blending fruit, oak, and savory notes.

Did you know?

Château Ksara Rouge is a flagship wine from Lebanon’s oldest winery, established in 1857 by Jesuit priests. It celebrates its centenary as a cuvée in 2021, symbolizing its enduring legacy and cultural significance in the region.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Game dishes: Pair with venison or wild boar to match the wine’s bold structure and rich flavors.
• Beef bourguignon: The wine’s depth and earthy undertones complement the savory richness of the dish.
• Duck breast with cherry sauce: The fruity and spicy notes harmonize beautifully with the sweet and tangy sauce.
• Tuna steak in red wine sauce: A versatile option that enhances the wine’s elegance and savory finish.

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.