Chateau Musar, Red 2018
Product Information
Country Lebanon
Region Bekka Valley
Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Carignan
Vintage 2018
ABV 14%
Discover the refined elegance of Chateau Musar Red 2018, an iconic Lebanese red wine crafted in the historic Bekaa Valley vineyards. Perfect for collectors and wine enthusiasts, this vintage showcases the region’s unique terroir and world-renowned winemaking traditions. Ideal for those seeking high-quality Lebanese red wines with character, longevity, and depth.
Vintage Highlights
The 2018 growing season delivered ideal conditions for exceptional quality. Winter rains and snow nourished the vineyard soils, supporting vigorous spring growth. Warm April temperatures accelerated development, while a hot, dry summer, with peaks near 40°C, intensified the grape flavours. Harvest began on September 4th, featuring naturally sun-dried, sugar-rich Cinsault grapes that add rare complexity to this standout vintage.
Grape Varietals & Winemaking
Chateau Musar Red 2018 is a meticulously balanced blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Carignan. Each varietal was fermented separately using natural yeasts in traditional concrete vats. After fermentation, the wine aged for 12 months in French Nevers oak barrels, followed by blending in early 2021.
A slow malolactic fermentation preserved the wine’s delicate complexity. Bottled unfined and unfiltered in summer 2021, this vintage maintains its authentic, natural character, perfect for those seeking minimal-intervention Lebanese wines.
Tasting Notes
This vintage opens with deep garnet colour and expressive aromas of dried cherries, ripe red fruits, and subtle smokiness. On the palate, expect rich, layered flavours of cranberries, dates, and raisins, complemented by dusty fruit notes and soft liquorice. Finely integrated tannins and lively acidity lead to a long, elegant finish, ideal for pairing with hearty dishes or enjoying on its own.
Discover Chateau Musar – Premium Lebanese Organic Wines from Bekaa Valley
Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar, Chateau Musar draws inspiration from Lebanon’s rich 6,000-year winemaking heritage and classic Bordeaux traditions. The Hochar family, of French Crusader descent since the 12th century, has cultivated a deep-rooted passion for fine wine. Gaston Hochar began crafting his renowned “wines with noblesse” during the 1920s, impressing French military officers with his exceptional vintages under the League of Nations mandate in Lebanon and Syria.
A unique bond between Chateau Musar and Bordeaux was forged during World War II when Major Ronald Barton of Château Langoa-Barton befriended Gaston Hochar, strengthening the legacy of Lebanese Bordeaux-style wines. This connection paved the way for the next generation when Serge Hochar, Gaston’s eldest son, studied oenology under Emile Peynaud at Bordeaux University. In 1959, Serge took the helm as Chateau Musar’s winemaker, dedicating 18 years to perfecting the iconic red blend that would become a symbol of Lebanese wine excellence.
Despite Lebanon’s Civil War from 1975 to 1990, Serge Hochar’s unwavering commitment earned him Decanter Magazine’s first-ever ‘Man of the Year’ award in 1984. Today, Chateau Musar thrives under the leadership of the third generation, with brothers Gaston and Marc Hochar managing winery operations and global commercial growth, respectively. Alongside them, Ronald Hochar brings his expertise in law and logistics, ensuring the family legacy continues.
Chateau Musar wines are crafted using organically grown indigenous grapes from high-altitude vineyards (1,000 meters) in Lebanon’s famed Bekaa Valley. The winery follows a non-interventionist winemaking philosophy, producing complex, elegant red blends, and whites renowned worldwide for their exceptional ageing potential and unique terroir expression.
Explore our exclusive collection of organic Lebanese wines, including Chateau Musar’s legendary red blends and white wines, and experience the historic flavours of Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley.
