Hochar Pere et Fils by Chateau Musar 2020 Red Wine Bekaa Valley

Hochar Pre et Fils 2020 by Chteau Musar is one of the most compelling introductions to Lebanons historic Bekaa Valley winesvibrant, earthy, and deeply expressive. Crafted by the legendary Musar estate, this red blend delivers lively red and black fruit, warm Mediterranean spice, and subtle rustic complexity. More approachable than the flagship Chteau Musar bottling yet unmistakably Musar in personality, its a beautifully balanced wine that combines Old World character with exotic Levantine charm.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Hochar Pre et Fils is produced by Chteau Musar, one of the most iconic wineries in the Middle East. Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar in Lebanons Bekaa Valley, the estate gained international acclaim for its distinctive wines and resilience during Lebanons civil war years.

The Hochar Pre et Fils label serves as a companion wine to the estates flagship Chteau Musar bottling, designed to be more approachable and ready to drink earlier while still reflecting the house style.

The 2020 vintage is a blend of classic Mediterranean and Bordeaux varieties:

• Cinsault
• Grenache
• Cabernet Sauvignon

These grapes are grown in vineyards near the village of Aana in the Bekaa Valley, a high-altitude plateau between mountain ranges known for abundant sunshine, cool nights, and ideal vine-growing conditions.

Winemaking follows Musars traditional, low-intervention philosophy:

• Fermentation in cement vats
• Gentle maceration for structure and complexity
• Aging for about six months in French oak barrels before bottling

The finished wine typically reaches about 1313.5% ABV, offering balance between fruit richness and fresh acidity.

Critics Reviews

Wine Enthusiast awarded the 2020 Hochar Pre et Fils 92 points, noting aromas of cherry preserves, clove, and orange zest with flavors of black cherry, blackberry, violet, and dark chocolate supported by structured tannins.

Wine reviewer Loren Sonkin also rated the wine 92 points, highlighting its complex aromas of cherry, raspberry, olives, and balsamic notes with a balanced, medium-bodied structure.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Red cherries, black raspberries, Mediterranean herbs, clove, and subtle cedar.

Palate:
Medium-bodied and vibrant with black cherry, blackberry, plum, and earthy spice balanced by fresh acidity.

Finish:
Long and savory with hints of olive, dried fruit, and warm spice.

Quick Overview

Recommended Service

Serving Temperature:
Serve at 6065F (1618C).

Decanting:
Decant 2030 minutes to allow the wines aromatics and savory complexity to open.

Food Pairings:
Excellent with lamb kebabs, grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, roasted vegetables, and Middle Eastern spice-driven cuisine.