Ch. Marsyas BLANC 2018

Château Marsyas Blanc 2018 is a dry, full-bodied white wine from the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon, crafted by the Johnny R. Saadé family with consulting from famed Bordeaux winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt.

Profile Overview

• Producer: Château Marsyas

• Region: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon (high-altitude vineyards at ~900 to 1,000 meters above sea level)

• Grapes: Blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc

• Terroir: Chalky, limestone-rich clay soils

• Vinification: Hand-harvested, cool fermentation, and aged on fine lees in French oak barrels (a combination of new and neutral oak) with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring).

Tasting Profile

• Aromas: Rich and aromatic, led by ripe yellow orchard fruit (peaches, Golden Delicious apples), grilled lemon, and pineapple, alongside secondary oak notes of toasted brioche, subtle hazelnut, and vanilla.

• Palate & Texture: Full-bodied, round, and slightly creamy on the mid-palate due to barrel aging and lees stirring. The Chardonnay gives it weight and richness, while the high altitude of the Bekaa Valley allows the Sauvignon Blanc to maintain a vibrant line of acidity.

• Finish: Long, warming, and savory, with a distinct salty/chalky mineral streak that keeps the weight in balance and prevents it from feeling overly heavy.

Serving Suggestions

• Service Temperature: 11–13°C (lightly chilled). Avoid serving too cold, as excessive chilling mutes the intricate barrel-aged aromas and rich texture.

• Pairings: Matches exceptionally well with grilled sea bass or turbot, roasted poultry with herbs, creamy veal dishes, lobster or crab with garlic butter, and aged goat or sheep's milk cheeses.