Lebanon’s Chateau Musar has reported an exceptional harvest for red grapes.  The house said that 2025 was an early harvest, with picking starting on 30 July, following a dry, hot summer.  The season in the Bekaa Valley region was characterised by back-to-back heatwaves, which caused accelerated ripening.  Despite the extreme heat, the winery team at Chateau Musar has said that it is optimistic about the grapes. In particular, it praised the concentrated flavours and phenolic development of the red wines.  In terms of picking, the harvest began with Chardonnay, followed by Tempranillo. Viognier and Vermentino ripened simultaneously and were harvested on the same day. Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon needed “intensive, hands-on canopy management” to prevent sun damage.  The house said that Carignan, one of Lebanon’s most established varieties, performed the best.  The house said it forecasts: “Structured, rich, spicy reds with ageing potential and vibrant, aromatic whites, despite slightly lower production volumes.”  Winemaker Tarek Sakr said: “This vintage tested us, but our high-altitude location, established bush vines, and minimal-intervention philosophy helped preserve freshness despite extreme conditions.” (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: DrinksRetailing