Spring wouldn’t be spring without our annual offer from Chateau Musar, that extraordinary Lebanese winery that is the epitome of triumph over adversity. As readers well know, Auberon Waugh and Simon Hoggart — my late, great predecessors as Custodian of the Corkscrew for The Spectator — were huge fans of Chateau Musar and I, too, have long been smitten.
Indeed, I’m sure that Fraser’s chief concern on handing me the key to the Speccie’s cellar was that I was as sound on Musar as those who had worn the mighty chain of office before me had been. Well, he needn’t have worried. I love mighty Musar and know how much our readers do too. Thanks to Mark Cronshaw of Mr. Wheeler, we’ve a fine selection here.
The 2018 Musar Jeune White (1) is Musar’s entry level vino, a tasty blend of Viognier, Vermentino and Chardonnay from vineyards deep in the Bekaa Valley. Unoaked, it’s crisp, clean, fresh and just that little bit different. £12.25 down from £13.75.
This extraordinary Lebanese winery is the epitome of triumph over adversity
The 2018 Musar Jeune Rosé (2) is similarly easy-going. Blended from Cinsault and Mourvèdre, it’s a glorious salmon pink and delectably fresh and enticing, with lively wild strawberry notes and a whisper of spice. £11.50 down from £12.75.
The 2018 Musar Jeune Red (3) is a soft, fresh, juicy mix of Cinsault, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, designed to be enjoyed in its youth with little fanfare. Just knock it back and enjoy. £11.50 down from £12.75.
I’ll be the first to admit that the 2012 Ch. Musar White (4) is something of an acquired taste, being as it is a blend of Obaideh and Merwah, which sound more like Old Testament prophets than they do ancient indigenous grape varieties.
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