Technical Specifications
Alcohol 14.0%
Grape Varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Carignan
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cinsault
Carignan
Region Bekaa Valley
Oak Aging 12 months
Oak Types French Nevers
Unfined Yes
Unfiltered Yes
Production Details 2008 was a year full of significant events. The weather was unremarkable during the first two months of the year with snow in January and rain until February 23rd. The rest of the spring and summer had no rain in the Bekaa Valley. March was fresh, April, May, and June were mostly sunny, helping to achieve 90% flowering. Humidity levels were at their lowest averages: 35 to 40%. Weeds were few due to lack of water. In mid-August, a heatwave hit the Bekaa Valley for five days causing all red grape varieties (Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault, and Grenache) to reach maturation at the same time. Harvesting became a day-by-day decision. The first grapes arrived at the winery with rich, balanced qualities. Fermentation began with Syrah, followed by Carignan and Cinsault, with Cabernet Sauvignon surprisingly last. Early stages of fermentation were straightforward, but a week later sugar levels increased causing fermentation to take longer than usual due to the richness of the grapes. The blending took place 3 years later in 2011 and the wines spent a year in French Nevers oak barrels. Released in the spring of 2015.
Tasting Notes
Nose: gamey, black fruits, red fruits, cherries, coffee, leather, cloves
Palate: sweet, young, well balanced, tight, dry, rich, warm, concentrated, fruit, energy, finesse, mature, balanced, long finish