Le Prieuré, Lebanese Red Blend.
Château Ksara, Lebanon’s oldest and most visited winery, dates back to 1857. Jesuit monks began farming grapes, producing Lebanon’s first dry wine. In 1898, the discovery of caves provided a natural, humid wine cellar, which maintains a constant temperature of ~56°F. The story is that a fox stole a chicken from a priest’s farm, which led him to the discovery of the caves. They’re a little over a mile long and if you visit the winery, you can tour these historic caves (added to my travel/must see list!).
It wasn’t until 1991 that Château Ksara planted noble grapes—Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, and Merlot.
The Prayer.
Le Prieuré, which translates to The Prayer in French, is a red blend of Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2013 retails for under $15, and while it isn’t their premium bottle, it’s certainly a good value.
Heniu, our fluffy, sweet, rescue ragamuffin thought it had an excellent nose. I didn’t dare tell him it wasn’t even open yet…
Uniquely earthy.
I found this bottle to be uniquely earthy, with an overall decent balance and moderate tannins. It wasn’t wonderfully complex, but it didn’t need to be, especially at the price point. It actually reminded me of a rustic Chianti. One of those inexpensive bottles you’d find at a wonderful, comfortable, old school Italian restaurant… where the stemless glasses are sturdy and constantly being refilled—easily paired with a hearty meal and warm bread. Just a simple, drinkable table wine.
Cheers! Drink wine with friends and be happy!
*I received this bottle as a sample from the awesome, family-owned and operated Silesia Brands, the Arizona distributor. All opinions are my own.
