Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Cinsault. Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar. The estate’s red grapes are grown in vineyards on the western side of the Bekaa Valley in the foothills of Mount Lebanon, planted at least 40 years ago. At around 1,000m above sea level, grapes ripen slowly to perfection in moderate temperatures (25°C on average). Varied soils and vineyard aspects enhance wine complexity. In the hot, dry summer of 2001, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Carignan grapes, with their thicker, firmer skins were protected from the sun and acquired rich, concentrated flavours. The Cinsault was fragrant and fruity but had relatively less colour. Harvest began 3rd Sept, one of the earliest dates on record. Arid conditions reduced the crop by 15%. Fermented in cement vats then matured, including 12 months in French Nevers oak barrels before blending and bottling in the Summer of 2004.

This was the first wine I tasted on the second day of the tasting, straight from breakfast – which is to be recommended, on this occasion. Lovely undergrowth and gentle woodiness on the nose. Showing its age beautifully but the price hike is too much as it takes it out of a lot of people’s comfort zone. We don’t mind spending £13 or £14 for wine for a dinner party, but £18 is just pushing us too far. A bad move. The wine is worth a star, the price takes that star away.
15/10/2008

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mel

Agreed, cant believe how the cost of this wine has shot up.

Mind you, I disliked it at £12

Always worthy of a comment this one.

I thought Serge Hochar was the founder ? I quite enjoyed the wine, in the late 80's and very early nineties, when missiles were flying over the top of the vineyard.

I did feel that a more recent bottle had changed character a little, less rustic, less peppery, less unique. I think the Carignan mix was increased, less Cab.... Not sure, but I found the wine less iconic as the winemaking appeared to became more modern. One use to find many chunks of dark debris in the bottom after 8 years or so. Inflation has doubled since my earlier memories of the wine.

I have not returned to try it again.

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Duncan