At a glance

Producer

Ixsir

Region

Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-60

Tasting profile

Dark fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant), spice (black pepper, clove), subtle oak (vanilla, toast), mineral undertones.

Evolution: With age, expected to develop tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, earth, and dried fruit complexity.

At peak: Complex, harmonious texture with integrated tannins and layered aromas.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate acidity providing good balance and freshness

Tannins

Medium-plus, ripe and well-integrated

Alcohol

Approx. 14.5%

Aging potential

15-20 years from vintage (excellent potential for Lebanese top reds)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2032

Optimal window

2022 to 2035

Current status

Approaching early maturity with good structure

Current condition

The wine should be well-integrated with evolving tertiary aromas; tannins may still firm but approachable.

2017 was a warm, balanced vintage in Bekaa Valley, producing structured wines with ripe tannins and good acidity, allowing for a long aging window. The blend of varietals adds complexity and aging capability.

Food pairing

Pair with grilled red meats, game, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and dishes with rich spices reflecting the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To soften the medium-plus tannins and allow bouquet development.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Ixsir practices water conservation, uses solar energy for some operations, employs sustainable vineyard practices with minimal chemical use, and recycles packaging materials.

Ixsir has made sustainability a core part of their production ethos balancing modern technology with traditional farming, though no official organic or biodynamic certification is recorded. Efforts in water management and energy use improve sustainability, but global export logistics contribute to carbon emissions.