Shiraz/Syrah (40%), Cabernet Franc (30%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%)

Tasted 5^th February 2014

This ruby coloured red has aromas of bramble and vanilla and it is still in its youth. Both the acidity and tannin levels were high and this wine was crying out for food, it would pair well with red meat or strong cheeses. There was black fruit on the palate along with cedar, the finish was good. It has seen 6 months in oak and the wine would benefit from another couple of years to soften.

Founded in 1857 and built by the Jesuit monks Chateau Ksara is Lebanon’s oldest, largest and most visited vineyard. Following encouragement by the Vatican in 1973 the monastery sold the winery to its current owners. It has been completely modernised and is now Lebanon’s largest wine exporter.

Ksara’s vineyards are located at an average altitude of 1,000 meters in the Mediterranean climate region of the central and western Bekaa Valley. The soil is mixture of chalk, clay and lime.

Awards:

2013 Vinalies Internationales Paris – France – Gold Medal (2011 Vintage)

Suppliers:

Oddbins £10