Sept Cuvée du Soleil 2020

Sept is the Lebanese estate of Maher Harb, who returned to his father's homeland at Nehla and planted 5,000 vines by hand on prepared terraces. Cuvée du Soleil 2020 is an organic blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. Lebanon's wine country sits at altitude, where strong daytime sun ripens the fruit fully while cool mountain nights and the wide diurnal range preserve acidity, so the wine reaches 14 percent yet stays fresh. It is aged twelve months in stainless steel on its lees: keeping the wine on the spent yeast cells, with the steel adding no oak character, builds texture and a savoury depth while protecting the bright fruit. The two grapes give a structured base, Tempranillo's red fruit and Cabernet's firmer tannin and darker edge. The colour is deep ruby. The nose is fresh and fruity, leading with ripe cherry and red berries over a savoury, herbal thread. The palate is medium to full bodied, the tannins ripe, the finish warm but clean. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted if young. It suits roast lamb, beef and grilled poultry.