Chateau Musar Red 1999
Product Information
Country Lebanon
Region Bekka Valley
Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Carignan
Vintage 1999
ABV 14%
The legendary Château Musar Red 1999 is widely regarded as one of the estate’s greatest vintages of the century. Produced in Lebanon’s renowned Bekaa Valley, this exceptional red blend showcases the artistry and vision of Serge Hochar, the visionary winemaker who elevated Château Musar to cult status among fine wine collectors worldwide.
Often described as a “Cabernet vintage,” 1999 combines structure, depth, aromatic complexity, and remarkable longevity. Now beautifully mature yet capable of further evolution, this is a must-have bottle for collectors of aged Bordeaux-style and Rhône-inspired reds.
Vintage Report – An Exceptional Year in the Bekaa Valley
The 1999 growing season in Bekaa Valley delivered near-perfect conditions:
• Mild winter with minimal rainfall
• Balanced spring weather
• Cloudy summer months preserving acidity
• Hot, sunny September ensuring full ripeness
Grape Varieties & Terroir
Blend:
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Cinsault
• Carignan
The vineyards span three historic villages:
• Ammiq
• Aana
• Kefraya
Each site contributes unique character due to diverse soils ranging from rich clay to rocky gravel. This mosaic of terroirs allows for intricate blending, a hallmark of Musar’s style.
• Cabernet Sauvignon (Kefraya): Structure, cassis, violets, firm acidity
• Cinsault (Aana & Ammiq): Flesh, perfume, Provençal charm
• Carignan (Aana): Spice, depth, velvety texture
Winemaking & Ageing
Fermentation took place in traditional cement vats with maceration lasting up to four weeks, allowing for deep extraction of colour, tannin, and flavour.
The wine was then aged for one year in French Nevers oak barrels before being blended in August 2001. Bottling followed in summer 2002.
True to Musar tradition, the wine was released several years later, only once it began to show harmony and complexity.
Tasting Notes – Château Musar 1999
Colour: Brilliant deep red with warm autumnal tones developing with age.
Nose: Intense aromas of red and black cherries, cassis, violets, incense, cedar, smoke, chocolate, and subtle game. Layers of spice and Provençal garrigue add complexity.
Palate: Rich, powerful, and beautifully balanced. Mature red fruits and blackcurrant intertwine with mellow spices, silky tannins, and vibrant acidity. Notes of liquorice, cedar, and a hint of orange peel emerge on the long, persistent finish.
Finish: Exceptionally long, evolving, and harmonious, a wine of both masculine structure and refined elegance.
Reviews
Serge Hochar: “A Cabernet vintage. One of the greatest years of the century. Masculine.”
Michael Broadbent: Noted the distinct personalities of each vineyard component, praising the Cabernet’s violet and blackcurrant finish and the Cinsault’s richness and flesh.
Andrew Jefford, Decanter: “An enticing, dangerous scent of violets, game and incense, with a concentrated, full-throttle flavour of dense, sweet fruits.”
Simon Hoggart, The Spectator: “Rich, dark, velvety… cedar, smoke, chocolate and liquorice, topped off with a wonderfully fragrant perfume.”
Jeannie Cho Lee (2016): “An unusually elegant Musar… vibrant, fresh and lively… layered palate with silky tannins. Drinking well now but should keep for another decade easily.”
Steven Spurrier (2019): “Mature yet clean and fresh… retains the classic Musar acidity… totally open now but will keep evolving.”
Why Buy Château Musar 1999?
• One of Musar’s most acclaimed vintages
• Fully mature yet capable of further cellaring
• Unique blend bridging Bordeaux structure and Rhône aromatics
• Highly collectible Lebanese fine wine
• Limited availability on the secondary market
This is a rare opportunity to own a historic vintage from one of the world’s most distinctive wineries.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Château Musar 1999 pairs beautifully with:
• Slow-roasted lamb with rosemary
• Game dishes (venison, duck)
• Aged hard cheeses
• Mushroom-based dishes
• Middle Eastern spiced cuisine
Decant for at least three hours before serving at 16–18°C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What style of wine is Château Musar 1999?
A. A full-bodied, age-worthy red blend combining Bordeaux structure with Rhône-like aromatics and Mediterranean warmth.
Q. How should I store this wine?
A. Store horizontally in a cool, dark environment at 12–14°C with consistent humidity.
Q. Is this a good investment wine?
A. Due to its reputation, limited availability, and critical acclaim, Château Musar 1999 is highly sought-after by collectors.
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