B-Qā de Marsyas White, Bekaa Valley 2016

80% Sauv/Blanc & 20% Chardonnay

The Bekaa Valley, south east of Beirut, at an altitude of 990 metres is home to the other ambitious project of the Saadé family. The vineyard covering 65 ha was planted in 1995 in the iron rich and limestone soils of this mountainous region. Bordeaux varietals are to the fore with the reds plus some Syrah and Mourvèdre whilst the whites are made from Chardonnay and Sauvignon. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel whilst ageing is done in barrel. Stéphane Derenoncourt also consults here, helping the family to achieve not just great Lebanese wine but great wine full stop.