Château Ksara Carignan Old Vines 2020

The Carignan displays a rich purple hue. On the nose, it reveals bold aromas of red and black fruits, complemented by hints of spice and garrigue. On the palate, it is fresh and vibrant, with flavors of blackcurrant, strawberries, and plums, accented by notes of spice, juniper, and oregano. The finish is long and lingering. It is recommended to decant the wine before serving to allow its wonderful flavors to fully develop. Château Ksara Carignan Old Vines pairs perfectly with chicken dishes or herb-crusted lamb roast. It is best served between 16°C and 18°C, to bring out its full flavors and aromas.

Château Ksara, established by Jesuits, holds the distinction of being Lebanon’s oldest winery. It produces a diverse range of red, white, and rosé wines, with a focus on French grape varieties while also incorporating native Lebanese grapes to highlight the region’s unique terroir. The winery's vineyards are located at an altitude of one kilometer above sea level in the renowned Bekaa Valley. This prime location benefits from a natural water table beneath the soil.

The altitude helps regulate the temperature, with hot summer days cooled by chilly evenings, creating a temperature difference of about 15°C. The region receives between 600 and 700 mm of rainfall annually, predominantly in the autumn and winter, while the dry summer months help minimize the risk of diseases. With no use of pesticides or herbicides, the vineyard practices nearly organic farming. The soil is diverse, ranging from chalk to a combination of clay, chalk, and limestone, yet it remains consistently stony throughout.