Chateau Musar Hochar Red

Crafted by the illustrious Chateau Musar winery in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, Hochar Pere et Fils Red is a captivating wine that transcends the boundaries of conventional expectations. Often referred to as the "second" wine of Chateau Musar, it shares a lineage of quality yet boasts a distinct personality. 

A Blend Rooted in Tradition

Hochar Pere et Fils Red is a beguiling blend of three classic grapes: Cinsault, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from a single vineyard near the village of Aana, nestled 1,000 metres above sea level, the grapes benefit from the cool mountain air and deep, limestone-rich soils. The average vine age of 30 years contributes further to the wine's complexity.

Winemaking with Minimal Intervention

Chateau Musar adheres to a philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the character of the grapes and terroir to shine through. Fermentation takes place in cement vats, preserving the fruit's vibrancy. The wine then spends 6 to 9 months maturing in French oak barrels, acquiring subtle hints of spice and vanilla without overwhelming the core fruit expression. Importantly, the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered, a testament to the meticulous winemaking practices and suitability for vegan consumers.

Aromatic Intrigue: A Symphony of Fruit and Earth

Swirling the wine in your glass, the first impression is one of vibrancy. The colour is a deep ruby red, hinting at the richness within. On the nose, a captivating interplay of aromas unfolds. Ripe black fruit notes of blackberry, plum, and cassis take centre stage, interwoven with hints of spice like pepper and clove. Earthy elements of tobacco and leather add complexity, while a touch of floral fragrance provides a touch of elegance.

The Palate: A Balanced Dance of Power and Finesse

The first sip of Hochar Pere et Fils Red reveals a wine that is both powerful and surprisingly elegant. The full-bodied structure is complemented by a refreshing acidity, creating a harmonious balance. The dark fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully onto the palate, joined by hints of black cherry and liquorice. The subtle oak influence adds a touch of spice and vanilla, while the fine-grained tannins provide a pleasant grip on the finish. This is a wine that lingers on the palate, inviting further exploration with each sip.

Food Pairings to Delight Your Senses

Hochar Pere et Fils Red's versatility makes it a fantastic companion for a variety of culinary delights. Here are some suggested food pairings to unlock its full potential:

• Hearty Meat Dishes: The wine's bold character stands up perfectly to robust flavours. Grilled lamb chops, roasted duck, or a hearty beef stew would be excellent partners.
• Spicy Cuisine: The wine's peppery notes can complement the heat in spicy dishes like Thai curries, Moroccan tagines, or Mexican enchiladas.
• Mushroom Delights: Earthy mushrooms share an affinity with the wine's earthy undertones. Consider pairing it with a mushroom risotto, pasta with a creamy truffle sauce, or grilled portobello steaks.
• Charcuterie and Cheese: The wine's richness makes it a great accompaniment to a charcuterie board featuring cured meats like salami and prosciutto. Semi-hard cheeses like Gouda or aged cheddar would also create a delightful contrast.

Decanting and Serving

Due to the unfined and unfiltered nature of the wine, a slight sediment may be present in the bottle. Decanting for approximately 30 minutes before serving can help remove any sediment and allow the aromas to fully blossom. The ideal serving temperature for Hochar Pere et Fils Red is slightly cooler than room temperature, around 16-18°C.

A Timeless Lebanese Treasure

Hochar Pere et Fils Red is a testament to Chateau Musar's dedication to quality and innovation. It's a wine that rewards exploration, offering a captivating blend of power, elegance, and complexity. With its versatility at the table, it's sure to become a treasured addition to your cellar.