Vin de Marj 2016 -Red

Varietal and Appellation

• Blend: Predominantly 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 70% Syrah

• Region: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep garnet with youthful purple edges

• Nose: Ripe black cherry and cassis lift first, followed by warm spice, Mediterranean herb, and an undercurrent of toasted cedar and cocoa

• Palate: Medium-plus body with concentrated dark fruit—blackberry and plum—balanced by bright acidity and firm, dusty tannins. Savory notes of tobacco and leather develop through the finish, finishing long with a subtle bitter-chocolate echo

• Alcohol: Moderate to elevated, integrated within the wine’s structure

Winemaking and Ageing

• Traditional fermentation with careful extraction to preserve fruit and structure

• Aged in a combination of French oak barrels, imparting vanilla and spice, while keeping the fruit-forward character intact

• 2016 shows good bottle-age development now—primary fruit remains evident while tertiary savory notes have integrated

Food Pairing

• Classic: Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic or grilled beef skewers

• Cheese: Aged Manchego, Pecorino, or a firm Tomme; also pairs well with a nutty Comte

Serving

• Best served slightly below room temperature, about 60–64°F

• Decant for 30–60 minutes if still showing tight tannins; decanting highlights fruit and softens edges