Chateau Musar?

Question

One of the local stores somehow found a whole bunch of old vintages of Chateau Musar from Lebanon. 1964, 1970, 1982. The condition is not super. Levels below shoulder in the 64 but upper shoulder for the 82.

Wine Spectator's ratings are generally quite modest for this wine, usually mid 80's. Yet, the wine has a rather legendary status.

Should I buy?

Answer 1

Interesting, eh?  Below the shoulder? I knew a girl like that once!

What's the price? You feel lucky, Pilgrim?

That's all I got!

.

Answer 2

Depends on three things.

1) Do you like old Ch Musar? It is a distinctive wine that divides people who can't stand it with those who love it

2) How well do you think the wines have been stored? Below the shoulders for the 64 sounds worrying.

3) How much are they charging.

Personally, I'd take a punt if they were reasonably priced

Answer 3

I have had Chateau Musar (1997 vintage drank in 2006).  It is a good wine, not great.  I would not buy any below shoulder bottle of wine.  I would try the 1982.  Open it and try it.  If it is in good condition, then the rest of it probably is too.  I'm guessing by the fact that the 1964 is below the shoulder that the wine was not properly stored and the whole lot isn't good, but to make sure, see if you can buy one bottle to try it out.