Sept Obeideh 2023

Sept is the Lebanese project of Maher Harb, working in the high Bekaa Valley from Obeideh, an indigenous white variety long grown in the region. The valley sits at altitude between two mountain ranges, and the elevation with its cold nights preserves acidity and aromatic detail in a warm, dry, sunny climate. Farming is organic. The wine is fermented and aged for twelve months on its lees in stainless steel, an inert vessel that keeps the fruit clean and adds no wood character, while the long lees contact builds texture and a fine almond depth through the slow release of mannoproteins. Regular contact with the lees also protects the wine and rounds the palate. The colour is bright straw gold. The nose is aromatic and floral, white flowers and jasmine over honey, white peach, apricot and lemon, with a soft chamomile note. The palate is medium bodied and dry, textured from the lees but lifted by fresh acidity, finishing long with a gentle honeyed, nutty edge. Serve at 10 to 11 degrees in a white glass.