The harvest of 2011 posed one of the most challenging experiences in winemaking at Chateau Musar over the last 20 years, as it was one of the most untypical years in Lebanese history. The year began with a cold January but with insufficient rain. February proved similar with March being sunnier but April and May produced the really big surprise with a level of rainfall to match January, February and March combined! The main result of the rain was very late maturation, with flowering occurring 25 days later than usual. The first Carignan grapes were harvested in September and the harvest was finally completed in mid-October, except for the 1983 vintage, was the latest in the companys history.

The 2011 vintage is Musars traditional blend of approximately one third each of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Carignan. The bottling took place 3 years later in 2014, after the wines spent a year in French Nevers oak barrels.

Released in the spring of 2018, the Chateau Musar Red of this year is a dark blood red colour with a rich, fragrant fruit nose; mulberries, black cherries, plums with a hint of mocha. The palate is very intense and concentrated, its full of volume and characterised by forest and black fruits with elegant spice. The tannins are soft and juicy and it has a lengthy finish.

Chateau Musar Red 2011 is a vibrantly powerful vintage and cellared well it will keep for decades.

Food matches: A great match for red meats, especially game, seasonal casseroles and mature cheeses.