My Lebanese Wine Tasting; before it was ‘hot’ topic!

Nestled in the heart of Lebanon's fertile Bekaa Valley, Château Ksara boasts a legacy stretching back to 1857, making it the country's oldest winery. Intrigued by their rich history and the growing reputation of Lebanese wines, I recently had the pleasure of sampling their Le Prieuré 2019 – and what an enlightening experience it was.

From the moment the cork was gently coaxed from the bottle, a captivating aroma began to fill the air. Hints of ripe dark cherries and plums mingled with a subtle earthiness, a whisper of spice, and perhaps even a delicate touch of cedar. It was a bouquet that hinted at both the warmth of the Lebanese sun and the ancient soils that nourish these vines.

Pouring the wine revealed a beautiful ruby hue, vibrant and inviting in the glass. The first sip was a revelation. Le Prieuré 2019 strikes a wonderful balance between fruit-forward character and

a pleasing structure. The dark fruit notes on the nose translated beautifully onto the palate, joined by a gentle tannic grip that provided a lovely framework without being aggressive. There was a refreshing acidity that kept the wine lively and engaging, making it incredibly food-friendly.

The label proudly states "Vin Rouge, Vin Produit du Liban" – a testament to the unique terroir of the Bekaa Valley. This region, with its high altitude and Mediterranean climate, lends a distinctive character to the wines produced here. Château Ksara, with its long history of winemaking expertise, clearly understands how to harness these conditions to create wines of elegance and complexity. Château Ksara is known for working with classic French grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot, often blended in intriguing ways. Le Prieuré likely showcases a thoughtful combination of these, resulting in a wine that is both approachable and possesses a certain depth.

As I savored each sip, I couldn't help but think of the rich cultural heritage that underpins Château Ksara. Their website, https://chateauksara.com/, beautifully illustrates this, showcasing their historic cellars dating back to Roman times and their unwavering commitment to quality winemaking. Exploring their site offers a fascinating glimpse into the dedication and passion that goes into each bottle.

Château Ksara's Le Prieuré 2019 is more than just a wine; it's a taste of Lebanon's enduring winemaking tradition. It's a bottle that invites you to explore new flavors and appreciate the unique terroir of the Bekaa Valley. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hearty meal, this red offers a delightful and memorable experience. It has certainly piqued my interest to explore more of Château Ksara's offerings and further delve into the exciting world of Lebanese wines. Highly recommended!