Chateau Ksara 'CHATEAU' 2018

Château Ksara 'CHATEAU' Elevé en Fûts de Chêne Vieilles Vignes 2018: A Detailed Tasting Experience for the Discerning Wine Drinker

Hailing from the esteemed Château Ksara winery in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, the 2018 Château Ksara 'CHATEAU' Elevé en Fûts de Chêne Vieilles Vignes is a captivating red blend crafted from a classic Bordeaux trio: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Petit Verdot. This enticing wine boasts a unique story, reflecting the rich viticultural heritage of the Bekaa Valley and the expertise of Château Ksara, one of the region's pioneering wineries.

The 2018 Vintage: 2018 was a favourable year for the Bekaa Valley, characterised by mild temperatures and sufficient rainfall during the growing season. These conditions allowed the grapes to mature evenly, resulting in a balanced and expressive vintage.

Aromatic Journey: Upon uncorking, the Château Ksara 'CHATEAU' 2018 greets the nose with an inviting bouquet. Deep aromas of ripe blackcurrants and juicy plums mingle with subtle hints of cedarwood and baking spice. Notes of earth and dark chocolate add complexity, hinting at the wine's time spent ageing in oak barrels.

On the Palate: The first sip reveals a wine of remarkable structure and depth. The Cabernet Sauvignon leads the charge, delivering a core of blackcurrant fruit and firm, yet well-integrated tannins. The Merlot contributes richness and a touch of sweetness, while the Petit Verdot adds a hint of earthiness and a touch of peppery spice on the finish. The oak influence is present but beautifully balanced, offering subtle notes of vanilla and toast that complement the fruit character.

Food Pairings: This multifaceted wine pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Hearty Red Meat: The firm tannins and bold fruit profile of the Château Ksara 2018 make it a perfect match for grilled steaks, roasted lamb, or hearty stews.
• Game: The earthy character of the wine complements dishes featuring game birds like pheasant or duck.
• Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar or a robust Gruyère will find a worthy partner in this wine's complex flavour profile.
• Mushroom Risotto: The earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully echoes the subtle earthy notes in the wine.

Serving Suggestions:

• Decanting: To allow the full spectrum of aromas and flavours to unfold, consider decanting the wine for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the tannins to soften and the wine to breathe.
• Serving Temperature: Serve the Château Ksara 2018 at a slightly cool temperature, ideally between 16-18°C (60-64°F). This will accentuate the wine's freshness and fruit character.

A Wine with Character and Potential:

The 2018 Château Ksara 'CHATEAU' Elevé en Fûts de Chêne Vieilles Vignes is a testament to the renowned Bekaa Valley and Château Ksara's dedication to quality winemaking. This well-structured and flavourful blend offers immediate enjoyment while possessing the potential to age gracefully for several years.

Exploring the Bekaa Valley:

For wine enthusiasts seeking to delve deeper into the world of Lebanese wines, the Château Ksara 2018 serves as a delightful introduction. The Bekaa Valley boasts a rich winemaking history, with other notable producers offering exciting expressions of both international and indigenous grape varieties.

At The General Wine, we are passionate about helping you discover exceptional wines from around the world. So, uncork a bottle of Château Ksara 2018, savour its complexity, and embark on a delicious journey to the heart of the Bekaa Valley.