Chateau Musar Red 2019 (75cl)
Product Information
Country Lebanon
Region Bekka Valley
Grape Variety Equal Blend of Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan
Vintage 2019
ABV 13.5%
Château Musar Red 2019
Discover one of the Middle East’s most iconic wines with Château Musar Red 2019, a beautifully balanced vintage that captures the character, resilience, and complexity of Lebanon’s celebrated winemaking tradition.
Crafted in the renowned Bekaa Valley by Château Musar, this vintage offers a compelling mix of depth, elegance, and ageing potential, making it a must-have for collectors and adventurous wine lovers alike.
Key Features of Château Musar 2019
• Region: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
• Grapes: Equal blend of Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan
• Alcohol: 13.5% ABV
• Oak Ageing: 12 months in French Nevers oak
• Style: Full-bodied, complex, age-worthy red wine
Vintage Overview – A Unique Lebanese Growing Season
The 2019 growing season in Lebanon was highly unusual, marked by exceptionally heavy winter rainfall—over 1000mm in the Bekaa Valley, far exceeding the typical 400–600mm. After years of drought, this rainfall revitalised the vineyards, restoring balance to the soils.
Cool, wet conditions in early spring delayed budburst by up to two weeks, while mild weather in May and June encouraged healthy flowering and fruit development. Harvest began in early September, with each varietal picked at optimal ripeness:
• Cabernet Sauvignon – 1st September
• Cinsault – 4th September
• Carignan – 6th September
This extended growing cycle contributed to the wine’s remarkable structure and aromatic complexity.
Winemaking & Maturation
The winemaking philosophy at Château Musar remains rooted in minimal intervention and natural expression.
• Fermentation took place in concrete vats using indigenous yeasts
• Temperatures were carefully controlled between 27–29°C
• All wines completed fermentation fully dry, with no residual sugar
• Malolactic fermentation finished by mid-November
The wine was then aged for 12 months in French Nevers oak barrels, enhancing structure and subtle spice. After blending in winter 2022, the wine was bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its authenticity and ageing potential.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep, blood-red colour with a brooding intensity.
Nose: Expressive aromas of:
• Blueberry
• Cranberry
• Blackcurrant
• Black olives
• Clove spice
Palate: Layered and evolving, showing:
• Ripe cherries and plum
• Warm spice and black pepper
• Earthy undertones
Finish: Fresh acidity balances fine, integrated tannins, delivering a long, elegant finish.
Wine Critics’ Scores & Reviews
The 2019 Musar has received its highest score from JancisRobinson.com since the outstanding 2010 vintage, earning an impressive 17.5 points. Dark, spicy and intensely expressive, the 2019 reveals layers of blueberry, cranberry, blackcurrant, black olive, clove and black pepper, while the palate offers rich notes of cherry, plum and spice. Beautifully balanced, it is drinking superbly now at seven years of age, yet still promises excellent ageing potential.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Château Musar Red 2019 pairs beautifully with rich and flavourful dishes:
• Slow-roasted lamb or beef
• Middle Eastern spiced dishes
• Grilled aubergine and vegetable tagines
• Mature cheeses
Its acidity and spice make it especially versatile at the table.
Ageing Potential & Drinking Window
This vintage is approachable upon release but will continue to evolve over time.
• Drink now: For vibrant fruit and freshness
• Cellar: 10–20+ years for deeper complexity and tertiary notes
Why Buy Château Musar Red 2019?
• Iconic wine from Lebanon’s most famous producer
• Unique vintage shaped by rare climatic conditions
• Minimal intervention winemaking for authentic expression
• Excellent balance of drinkability and ageing potential
Whether you are expanding your cellar or exploring world wines, this bottle offers exceptional character and value.
Discover our range of Chateau Musar wines.
Read our Blog on Chateau Musar
FAQs
Q. What makes Château Musar Red 2019 special?
A. It is unusual growing season, natural fermentation, and traditional winemaking create a wine with exceptional depth, balance, and ageing potential.
Q. Is Château Musar 2019 ready to drink?
A. Yes, it is enjoyable now but will benefit from further ageing for added complexity.
Q. What grapes are in Château Musar Red?
A. An equal blend of Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Carignan.
Q. How should I serve this wine?
A. Serve at 16–18°C and decant for at least 3 hours to fully appreciate its aromas and flavours.
The Red 2019 is also available in Magnum
