Chateau Musar Musar White 2017

Region and Vineyards

The Mount Lebanon slopes, where the Obaideh and Merwah vines thrive, are located in the Bekaa Valley, a region renowned for its ancient viticultural history and high-altitude vineyards. The vineyards lie at elevations that ensure cool nights and warm days, preserving the grapes' natural acidity and enhancing aromatic profiles.

In 2017, the vintage began with above-average rainfall and snowfall, replenishing the water table. A frost in late April affected the vines pruned in early winter, resulting in unique wines with robust structure and power. These indigenous varietals have adapted seamlessly to Lebanese conditions over centuries, offering an authentic expression of the terroir.

Winemaking

The Obaideh grapes were harvested on 19th September, and the Merwah on 27th September, slightly earlier than usual due to the weather conditions. Both varietals were fermented in new French Nevers oak barrels for 9 months, a technique that enhances their natural complexity and imparts a subtle texture to the wine.

After fermentation, the wine was blended and bottled in the summer of 2018, following cold stabilization. The result is a wine of exceptional purity and precision, with flavors and aromas that will continue to evolve as it matures. With an alcohol content of 11.5%, this wine is light yet full of character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale lemon with brilliant clarity.
• Aroma: Complex aromas of apples, fresh hay, and vanilla, with hints of grapefruit and orange blossom.
• Palate: On the palate, flavors of sweet basil, peach, and tarte tatin emerge, supported by a fine balance of acidity and richness. The wine’s texture and flavors promise further development with age.

Did You Know?

The indigenous varietals Obaideh and Merwah are closely linked to the ancient viniculture of Lebanon. These grapes are believed to be ancestors of more globally recognized varietals like Chardonnay and Sémillon, making Château Musar White a unique piece of viticultural history.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled sea bass with lemon and herbs: The wine’s citrus notes and minerality complement the delicate flavors of the fish.
• Chicken tagine with preserved lemons and olives: Its aromatic complexity enhances the dish’s savory and citrusy elements.
• Risotto with asparagus and Parmesan: The wine’s richness and acidity harmonize with the creamy texture of the risotto.
• Goat cheese salad with figs and walnuts: The wine’s fresh and floral qualities balance the tangy and sweet components of the dish.

History of Château Musar

Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar, Château Musar is steeped in Lebanon’s 6,000-year-old winemaking history. Inspired by his travels in Bordeaux, Gaston Hochar envisioned a winery that would unite Lebanon’s ancient viticultural heritage with French winemaking techniques.

In 1959, Gaston’s son, Serge Hochar, took over as winemaker, dedicating years to perfecting the winery’s signature style. Under Serge’s stewardship, Château Musar gained international acclaim, notably when its 1967 vintage was named "Discovery of the Fair" at the Bristol Wine Fair in 1979. Despite the turbulence of the Lebanese Civil War, Serge maintained production, missing only two vintages (1976 and 1984), a testament to his unwavering commitment to winemaking.

Serge Hochar’s contributions earned him the title of Decanter Magazine’s first ‘Man of the Year’ in 1984. Following Serge’s passing in 2014, the third generation of the Hochar family, led by Gaston and Marc Hochar, continues to uphold the winery’s legacy, supported by a team of dedicated winemakers.

Region and Vineyards

Château Musar’s vineyards are situated in the Bekaa Valley, a region with a viticultural history dating back to the Phoenicians. The vines thrive at an altitude of 1,000 meters, where the unique microclimate, characterized by hot days and cool nights, ensures excellent grape maturation while preserving acidity and aromatic complexity.

The gravelly soils with a limestone base contribute to the wines’ characteristic minerality and depth. This terroir, combined with traditional viticultural practices, allows the grapes to develop their full potential, reflecting the distinctiveness of the Bekaa Valley.

The winery also places a strong emphasis on sustainability. Its vineyards have been managed organically since 2006, highlighting its commitment to preserving the environment while producing wines of exceptional quality.

Wine Range of Château Musar

Château Musar offers a diverse portfolio of wines, each reflecting the winery’s philosophy of minimal intervention:

• Château Musar Red: The flagship wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan, known for its complexity and ability to age gracefully.
• Château Musar White: Crafted from indigenous Obaideh and Merwah, this wine is often likened to aged white Burgundy for its depth and elegance.
• Hochar Père et Fils: A single-vineyard red wine that offers an approachable alternative to the flagship red, suitable for earlier enjoyment.
• Musar Jeune: A vibrant range of red, white, and rosé wines made without oak aging, emphasizing fresh fruit flavors.

Did You Know?

Château Musar was the first Lebanese winery to achieve organic certification in 2006. The indigenous varietals Cinsault, Obaideh, and Merwah used in their wines date back thousands of years, showcasing Lebanon’s ancient winemaking heritage.