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Lincolnshire Wines
Written by Rob Davis on 18th August 2010
Lebanon is a region of much political and religious instability and turmoil. However amongst this there are a group of adventurous and pioneering wine growers who are turning out some exceptional wines and liberating Lebanon’s grapes to sommeliers and wine buffs across the world... here, wine expert Ben Straw selects his finest examples...
One of the primary wine growing regions for Lebanon is the Bekaa Valley; sandwiched between the Mount Lebanon Mountains on the coast and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains on the Lebanese/Syrian border. Here, because of the altitude and snowmelt from the mountains, ideal grape growing conditions exist in an otherwise over hot climate.
We’ll focus on two wineries – Chateau Musar and Massaya. At Musar Gaston & Serge Hochar have been creating their renowned red blend since the late 1950’s. For the Ghosn brothers at Massaya it is a much newer enterprise; they celebrated their 10th anniversary in 2008 and work in partnership with the Brunier brothers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Dominique Hebrard in Saint-Emilion. Here’s my choice from these wonderful producers. Enjoy!
1 Massaya Blanc, Bekaa Valley - £11.25
Sami & Ramzi Ghosn blend two local varietals (Obeidi and Clairette) with two international ones (Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc) to create this crisp dry white. A good food wine especially when served with tapas or grilled meats.
2 Massaya Classic, Bekaa Valley - £10.95
An easy-going red wine for all occasions. This Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah blend has aromas of raspberries and spice on the subtle nose. Both generous and light.
3 Massaya Silver Selection, Bekaa Valley - £15.25
The Silver Selection is a red blend of Cinsault, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre grapes. A step up from the Classic this has a little more sophistication and complexity with a gentle oak influence. There is a touch more warmth to the palate and some great ageing potential.
4 Chateau Musar 2000 - £22.75
This historic Stellenbosch estate, sheltered by the Simonsberg, has a wine growing history dating back to 1682. It has been in the possession of the Barlow family since 1941 and it is after Peter that their flagship wine is named. This legendary Cape Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied and rich with concentrated cassis, black cherries & some herbaceousness. This multi-layered wine is currently accessible, but will repay cellaring of a decade or more.
5 Massaya Gold Reserve 2000, Bekaa Valley - £22.95
Massaya’s flagship wine. The oak-aged Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre and Syrah combine to make a dry, full and complex wine. The 2000 has an aromatic, almost floral, nose. Notes of red and black fruit, vanilla and spice all show on the palate. Something to enjoy for that special occasion.
Featured Lincolnshire wines are available at Steep Hill Wines, Lincoln. Call 01522 544737 or see www.steephillwines.com.
