Château Musar Blanc 2018, hailing from Lebanon’s renowned Bekaa Valley, is an intriguing wine with an eclectic, characterful style. The cepage for Musar’s white wines is quite unique, often involving rare indigenous varieties such as Obaideh and Merwah, though the precise blend may change with each vintage and is generally shrouded in a little mystery. The 2018 vintage benefited from a mild winter followed by a temperate growing season, allowing for gradual ripening and a well-balanced harvest. Winemaking here is traditional, relying on natural yeasts, minimal intervention, and aging in concrete vats and old barrels, which helps contribute to the wine’s complexity and depth. The result, typically, is a full-bodied dry white with subtle oxidative notes, layers of citrus and stone fruits, honey, warm spice, and a distinctive, gently nutty nuance that develops with bottle age.
The Bekaa Valley itself lies at an impressive altitude of around 1,000 metres, giving the region a unique combination of Mediterranean sun and cooling mountain influences. The soils tend towards gravel and limestone, lending structure and freshness to the wines. This area boasts a winemaking history that stretches back thousands of years, with ancient Phoenician and Roman roots, and today it represents the beating heart of Lebanon’s wine renaissance, championing both native and imported grape varieties.
As for food pairing, the beguiling style of Château Musar Blanc suits a variety of dishes. Its richness and savoury undertones pair well with roast chicken, grilled lamb, or spiced Middle Eastern dishes such as chicken with sumac or mezze platters featuring hummus, baba ghanoush, and tahini. Creamy seafood dishes, smoked fish, or even tagines with dried fruit and nuts complement its unique character beautifully.
To best appreciate the nuances of this wine, serve it lightly chilled – ideally at 12-14°C – and if possible, decant for half an hour to allow its aromas and textures to fully unfold.
