Massaya (Lebanon) Classic Red 2004
Massaya’s Classic Red is a blend of 60% Cinsault with 20% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Stainless steel fermentation with hand-plunging is followed by eight months in vats, with no oak influence. It is an immediately seductive wine on the nose, with a deep-seated, terrifically creamy blackcurrant fruitiness and little notes of anise, grilled meats and floral hints of violet and roses. On the palate it is concentrated and ripe, with plenty of that slightly perfumed, parma-violet character to solid, rich, berry fruits. This has a meaty texture and plenty of substance, with lovely tannins roughening up the edges, and excellent length and balance. Massaya is owned by passionate Lebanese brothers Sami and Ramzi Ghosen, and winemakers Dominique Hebard of Bordeaux and Daniel Brunier of Vieux Telegraph in the Rhone, and there is very fine quality in evidence here. Around 8.99, stockists include Berry Bros & Rudd