Chateau Musar 1981

Winery Background & History

Chateau Musar, founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar, is one of Lebanon’s most iconic wineries. Located in the Bekaa Valley, it has gained international recognition for producing distinctive wines that reflect the rugged, sun-soaked terroir of the region. The 1981 vintage is part of Chateau Musar’s unique legacy, blending tradition with the influence of the Mediterranean climate.

Producer & Wine Maker

The 1981 vintage was crafted by Serge Hochar, the son of Gaston Hochar, who took over winemaking duties in 1959. Serge was known for his minimalist approach, allowing the terroir and vintage characteristics to express themselves fully in each wine. His methods included long fermentation periods with natural yeasts and minimal use of sulfur.

Vineyard

The grapes for Chateau Musar come from old vineyards planted near Aana and Kefraya in the Bekaa Valley. The vineyards are located at high altitudes, where the limestone soils contribute to the wine’s freshness and minerality.

The Wine

Chateau Musar 1981 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan, all of which were fermented separately with natural yeasts before being aged in French oak for 12 months. This blend is then aged in bottle for several years before release, allowing the wine to develop its signature complexity.

Vintage

The 1981 vintage was a notable year for Musar, producing wines with remarkable depth and character. It is often cited as one of Serge Hochar’s favorite vintages, with the Cabernet Sauvignon performing particularly well, bringing structure and richness to the blend.

ABV %

The alcohol by volume (ABV) for Chateau Musar 1981 is 14%.

Vinification and Aging Method

This wine is vinified using a traditional process with fermentation in concrete tanks and extended aging in French oak barrels for 12 months. Afterward, it undergoes additional aging in the bottle for at least four years before release. The wine is neither filtered nor fined, which helps maintain its natural texture and complexity.

Grapes Varietals

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Cinsault

• Carignan

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep garnet with slight bricking, showing signs of age.

• Nose: Aromas of cedar, cigar box, and leather, followed by layers of blackcurrant, strawberry, and earthy spice.

• Palate: Medium-bodied with soft tannins, showcasing flavors of ripe red fruits, coffee, tobacco, and eucalyptus, with a balanced acidity that lifts the finish.

Food and Wine Pairing

Chateau Musar 1981 pairs well with:

• Lamb dishes

• Game meats

• Mature cheeses

• Middle Eastern cuisine, such as grilled lamb with spices

Service Methods

Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) and consider decanting for an hour to let the wine open up fully and soften any remaining tannins.

Storage and Ageing Potential

This wine is ready to drink but can be aged further if stored properly. With optimal conditions, it can continue to evolve for another 5-10 years, developing more tertiary flavors like dried fruit, leather, and savory earth.

Scores

• Robert Parker: 93 points

• Tastingbook: 93 points

Summary

Chateau Musar 1981 is a beautifully complex wine that has stood the test of time. Its unique blend of varietals and the hands-off winemaking approach make it a perfect reflection of Lebanon’s distinctive terroir. It is a wine for those who appreciate maturity and layered complexity, ideal for special occasions or pairing with rich, flavorful dishes.