Bekaa Valley Red 1999

This mature Lebanese red is a 1999 Château Musar, from the estate founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar. At more than 25 years old, it shows what the Bekaa Valley’s most famous wine becomes with time.

1999 was an exceptional vintage. A mild, dry winter and a cool, cloudy summer were followed by a hot, sunny September, which brought the grapes to full ripeness with deep concentration and good acidity. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan comes from vineyards in Ammiq, Aana, and Kefraya. It fermented in cement with up to four weeks of maceration, aged a year in French oak, and was bottled in 2002. Today it has a warm autumnal red color, with warm spice and floral red berry aromas. The palate is elegant, with silky tannins and classic Musar freshness.

It’s fully mature, so enjoy it now. Decant it gently to leave the sediment behind, and serve it with roast lamb or game.