Château Musar Red 2016

2016 Château Musar Red —an iconic wine choice, particularly known for its charm and depth.

2016 Château Musar Red – An in-depth description

Alcohol percentage

14%

Grapes and Blend

A balanced blend consisting of approximately 1/3 Cabernet Sauvignon, 1/3 Cinsault and 1/3 Carignan

These grapes each contribute different qualities: Cabernet with depth and structure, Cinsault with finesse and elegance, and Carignan with intensity and terroir expression.

Vinification & Maturation

Hand-harvested grapes, fermented with wild yeasts in concrete tanks at moderate temperatures (~27–33 °C), without filtration

After fermentation: 12 months maturation in French oak barrels , followed by annual blending and up to seven years of maturation before release

Flavor Profile & Tannins

Appearance : Deep ruby ​​red color with high viscosity

Aroma : Aromas of red cherries, plums, carob, figs and oriental spice

Taste : Rich, concentrated with notes of kirsch, blackcurrant, chocolate – soft, velvety tannins and a long finish

Tannins & Acidity : Well-structured and balanced – the elegance comes from lively acidity and ripe tannins

Reviews & Drinking Style

Falstaff / Peter Moser : 93 points. Describes the wine as “youthful and underdeveloped” with a recommended drinking period of 2027–2040

Other sources emphasize that it is a wine with significant aging potential – drink now or store for 10–15 years

Terroir & History

The wine comes from the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon, at altitudes around 1,000 m – ideal for preserving acidity and aromatic precision.

The winery is managed (as of vintage 2016) by the Hochar family; the style is natural, terroir-driven and with a long tradition of aging before release

The vineyard has over 40-year-old bush vines and is certified organic, grown without irrigation.

Summary

The 2016 Château Musar Red is an exemplary version of Lebanon’s most famous red wine: full-bodied and complexly structured, with depth, charm and a long-lasting potential. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now (with decanting) or stored for decades under the right conditions. If you would like food pairing suggestions or comparisons with other notable cuvées – just let us know!