2017 Chateau Musar 'Hochar Pere et Fils' Red

LEBANON | Red Blend

$ 29.99

"This single-vineyard wine is made in a modern style: concentrated and slightly reductive. It shows notes of new oak barrels, lovely red berry fruit (reminiscent of Grenache) and garrigue aromas. So Mediterranean on the palate, with sweet tannins, spices and a meaty hint on the aftertaste. A very friendly, easy-to-drink and enjoyable wine. It becomes even better and more refined a day after the bottle is opened."

- 91 points, Decanter

" Sourced from several parcels of ancient vines in choice spots, like its vintage 2016 predecessor this wine was raised in Steinmetz’s cellar. A penetrating nose of fresh strawberry and pear mingled with smoky, pungent marjoram and black tea ushers in a palate of flattering glossiness, creaminess and surprising softness (as also reflected in remarkably low measurable acidity). There is a faint trace of finishing heat (from 13.0% alcohol) that accentuates grapefruit peel and pear seed piquancy, but fortunately, the pear and red berry fruit delivers enough crunchiness to invigorate and enough primary juiciness to refresh. And in terms of sheer persistence, not to mention overall concentration, this is impressive stuff. Steinmetz noted that the old single-post-trained vines in question were especially susceptible to botrytis, so a highly selective harvest was imperative."

- 91 points, Vinous

Vegan friendly!