Casa Castillo Monastrell 2021

After Castano Hecula, here is another monastrell, one with a completely different style. This is a very contemporary interpretation of the variety

The purist’s monastrell. Less opulent, more exciting than most from the genre, but I wonder if went too far. Raw and rustic, lacks some charm, smoothness, or just needs a few years to soften. Reduction makes the dark, ripe nose savoury and it also adds freshness, and a bit of a Burgundian touch. Full-bodied but compact, with nice tension. Finishes hot and raw, though, it’s heavily tannic and a bit unforgiving. Hold for a few years. 87 points for now. €8.75, stockists: Decantalo, Silkes Weinkeller and more in Germany, UK.