Chateau Musar stands as one of the world’s most famous wineries. Located in the sometimes war-ravaged Bekaa Valley, it has been producing distinctive and deservedly sought after wines for several decades.
Stylistically, Musar is somewhat idiosyncratic. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with southern French varieties including Grenache, Carignan and Cinsault, it is sometimes reminiscent of a southern Rhone. On others, it is a ringer for a quality Right Bank Bordeaux. Whatever the case, there is a distinctive ‘Musariness’ that distinguishes Chateau Musar from the rest of the wine world.
Hochar Pere et Fils, the second wine of Chateau Musar, is a good introduction to the label. While it doesn’t possess the depth or complexity of the ‘Grand Vin’, there is a definite Musar character, reflected in the slightly nutty nose and silky palate. It is a wine that is well matched to lightly spice cuisine – a Lamb Tagine would be perfect.
2004 HOCHAR PERE ET FILS Producer: Chateau Musar
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon et al
Vintage: 2004
Region: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
ABV: 14.0%
Closure: Natural cork
Retail Price: $37.99
Date tasted: 13 October 2012
Tasting Note:
Bright garnet. Interesting nose of cherry, damson, leather, fig and grilled chestnuts. Dry, medium bodied, savoury, very silky in texture, cherry, plum and fig, cinnamon, ground nutmeg.
Score: 16/20
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