Chateau Musar White 2013

The Musar Jeune white represents a new direction in style for Chateau Musar – it was first produced in 2006 to express the vibrant flavours of grapes from young Bekaa Valley vines.
The 3 grape varieties – 30% Viognier, 40% Vermentino and 30% Chardonnay are an eclectic blend of French and Sicilian varieties (none of which are found in Chateau Musar White) were harvested in August 2014 and fermented in stainless steel vats between 19 oC and 22oC, followed by blending, cold stabilisation and bottling in early 2015.

2014 will go down in Lebanese viticulture history but not as might be expected as much for its vines or wines but for the weather! It has been the only year where records and indeed memories, show that the mountains in Lebanon failed to turn white with snow! In December and January there was no rain, no snow and no cold weather. February and March were also very dry and it seemed as if the winter was an extension of summer 2013. April, May, June and July, where buds open and flowering occurs were perfect for the vines but with one very important element missing for summer survival – water. By early August, vines were starting to suffer badly but luckily the white grapes just survived the crisis. Chardonnay was the first to be harvested on the 4th August with a yield of 18 hl/ha, Viognier was next on the 13th with a yield of 25 hl/ha and Vermentino on the 16th with 18 hl/ha. The vines used for the Musar Jeune White are from our organically certified vineyards and come from 2 different vineyard terroirs: Chardonnay and Vermentino are grown on limestone based soils while the Viognier comes from vineyards with silty soils.

The Viognier and Vermentino of 2014 displayed wonderful aromatic qualities and fragrance and the Chardonnay had a rich oily texture and a floral nose. This vintage is concentrated with good acidity – full of herbs with white fruits of pears and white peaches on the nose and palate. This is a crisp, mineral well-structured wine that shows complexity and verve.

Serve gently chilled with mezze, tapas, seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. A perfect food wine, or simply enjoy with toasted almonds and olives.
14 Alc./Vol.