Chateau Oumsiyat Jaspe Red

 Chateau Musar is the leading wine company of Lebanon. The other day, I had the opportunity to try another red wine from Lebanon at an Arabian dinner. This was the 2014 Chateau Oumsiyat Jaspe Red. I know no background of this wine.

Cab Sauv Syrah Carignan Cinsault

This medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon blend tastes of blackberry, olive, and red plum. The fruit concentration is medium, as is the acidity. The wine delivers a smooth mouthfeel on the mid-palate with dry dusty tannins. The finish is slightly harsh.

This is not a bad wine, particularly with food, and when wine is not the focus. However, it is not good enough to really seek it out, unless you are curious.

Score: 87/0

Chateau Musar Hochar

I always wanted to try this legendary wine from the stalwart of the Lebanese wine industry. This winery operates under extreme difficulty in this war torn country. The Hochar is a single vineyard wine, grown not far from Beirut at an elevation of 1000 metres. It is a blend from old, low-yielding Cinsault, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2013 Chateau Musar Hochar Père et Fils is a red fruited wine with earthy characteristics as well. The wine is of medium weight and medium intensity. It is very elegant and harmonious with velvety tannins.  This is quite a serious, but easy to drink wine. It tastes French, but neither from Bordeaux nor Rhône. If you have a chance, you should try it.

Score: 93/+++