Château Musar Château Musar 2018 750ml

Fresh and dried cherries, just-picked raspberries, figs and juicy dates headline this impeccably balanced, garnet-hued blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Carignan from Lebanon's Bekaa Valley. Drink it now or in several years; either way, you'll be glad you did.

The 2017 Château Musar has a perfumed bouquet with well-defined plummy red fruit, fireside embers and pressed flower scents. A hint of VA in the background gives the aromatics a welcome kick. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and well-judged acidity, harmonious, not powerful, yet full of flavor. A pleasing bitterness surfaces towards the finish, with moderate persistence and a residual white pepper tang lingering in the mouth. Very nice. (Neal Martin)

A distinctive style, with a saline-infused core of chocolate-covered cherry, spices and dried green herbs, plus a foundation of dusty earth and leafy forest floor. Delicate in form, with menthol lift and eucalyptus notes powered by mouthwatering blood orange acidity through the bitter finish. A unique and delicious version that will have fans. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsaut and Carignan. Drink now through 2030. 16,000 cases made.