Author: Chris Khatsch

There must be a little art in everything I create, even if my creation is as cold as a machine and follows empirical data.
Review of Chateau Qanafar Mago 2018, a Lebanese wine.

Lebanese Wines: Chateau Qanafar Mago 2018

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Name: Château Qanafar Mago 2018
Type: Red Wine
Grapes: Cinsault, Syrah, Cabernet-Sauvignon
Year: 2018
Country: Lebanon
Region: Bekaa
Date Consumed: March 6, 2024

A medium-bodied, well-balanced, low tannin wine. I got notes of red fruits and minute hints of tobacco and spices. It’s not a wine I would bring with me to a formal dinner, but it’s a wine I wouldn’t mind adding to my collection.

Although it does not require your full attention, the Mago is a wine with character. It has something to say. It is also easy to drink, so it’s perfect for wine nights, for times when you plan on uncorking more than one bottle. And trust me when I say that you will want to have a second glass.

It’s a wine that keeps the conversation going. It’s a wine that can produce laughter as well as memories.

I’d give it 87/100.

Château Aurora Cuvée du Patron Red Batroun Lebanon 2020

Lebanese Wines: Château Aurora Cuvée du Patron 2020

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Name: Château Aurora Cuvée du Patron
Type: Red Wine
Grapes: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Year: 2020
Country: Lebanon
Region: Batroun
Date Consumed: March 3, 2024

Even though we had purchased this wine when we were visiting the winery, I didn’t know this was a limited-edition bottle until I decided to read the label after opening it. Only 900 bottles of Château Aurora Cuvée du Patron 2020. If I had this information before uncorking the bottle, I might have thought twice about drinking it. But I’m happy I didn’t. It was an outstanding wine. It came with hints of dried black fruits and blackberries, and I couldn’t have asked for more.

I’ll give it a 90/100.

And if I ever get the chance to buy one again, I will.

Arturo Fuente Opus X Destino al Siglo Maduro Perfecxion X - Cigar Review - Mareva Lebanon

Have a Cigar: Arturo Fuente Opus X Destino al Siglo Maduro Toro

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Name: Arturo Fuente Opus X Destino al Siglo Maduro Toro
Country: Dominican Republic
Shape: Parejo
Size: Toro (6 1/4 inches x 49)
Strength: Medium to Full

I smoked this cigar last night, celebrating my birthday. I smoked it at the cigar lounge surrounded by friends who were there to see me age another year. I paired it with Bulleit Rye. It was good. Actually, it was great…

However, I’d like to add that, compared to other cigars, the Opus X is overpriced. There are much cheaper cigars out there that taste great. But it’s a good birthday cigar, nonetheless.

It’s possible that the name of this cigar is “Arturo Fuente Opus X OXO Oro Oscuro Perfecxion X.” But after a few Google searches this morning, I decided to give up. I forgot what was written on the box when I picked it up. I think the name had “Maduro” in it, but I have a hangover that I need to take care of right now, and my short-term memory seems to be on a holiday. I could, of course, ask the cigar lounge. But I won’t be visiting them again this week, and I really want to get this post up before my wife and I go to this getaway, where we plan to enjoy my birthday weekend. Besides, the color of the cigar wrapper is Maduro to me…

So, what’s the verdict?

It’s an excellent cigar. It’s smooth and sweet, has a great draw, and comes with a harmony of notes. However, for the same price, you can purchase three excellent cigars instead of just one. (But if it’s your birthday, you are allowed to pamper yourself.)