Castaño Organic Monastrell 2016

VINTAGE Drought, was a regular feature in 2016, resulting in very low yields. Rain was absent since the spring and meant the fruit from 2016 was very similar to 2015, with good concentration of flavour.

PRODUCER The Castaño family owns over 410 hectares of vineyards in the Yecla DO in south-eastern Spain. 80% of these vineyards are planted with the native Monastrell variety. Castaño symbolises the best of what southern Spain has to offer: rich, warm climate wines made from grapes grown at altitude and transformed into robustly modern wines. For several generations, Bodegas Castaño has been a pioneer in the region.

VINEYARDS The grapes are grown on organic plots at 750 metres above sea level, a perfect area for organic production. Dry, sunny weather and specific soil conditions here give little chance for mould or pests to thrive, allowing a pesticide-free and agrochemical-free crop every year. The average age of the bush vines is 22 years old and they are planted at a density of 1,600 vines per hectare.

VINIFICATION The grapes were crushed very lightly before being fermented and macerated on their skins for 10 days at a controlled temperature of 28ºC in stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine was aged very briefly in oak to round out the tannins. The gentle handling preserved the natural fruit purity and freshness of the Monastrell grape in its most natural way.

TASTING NOTES Intense and shiny ruby red. Morello cherry perfumes compliment notes of stewed fruit and sweet spice. On the palate, the Monastrell is structured but silky and bursting with fruit.

VINTAGE INFORMATION
Winemaker Mariano López
Grape Varieties 100% Monastrell
Region Yecla, Murcia
Bottle Sizes 75cl
Features Certified Organic
ABV 13.5%
Closure Screwcap
Vintage 2016

(SKU: CS_MON_16)