2017 Casa Castillo Pie Franco

The 2017 Casa Castillo Pie Franco is a striking wine from Jumilla, a wine region in the southeast of Spain, known for its powerful and expressive red wines. Casa Castillo is a renowned winery in this region, and the Pie Franco is one of their most prestigious wines. This wine is made from 100% Monastrell (also known as Mourvèdre), a grape variety that thrives in the hot, dry climate of Jumilla.

Vineyard and Terroir: The grapes for Pie Franco come from old vines growing on their own roots (pie franco), which is rare today due to the global phylloxera outbreak in the 19th century. These vines are more than 70 years old and are planted in poor, sandy soils with a limestone subsoil, which contributes to the complexity and depth of the wine.

Vinification: The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully selected. Fermentation takes place in concrete tanks with native yeasts, which gives the wine its authentic character. After fermentation, the wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, which ensures a subtle integration of wood notes without overpowering the expression of the fruit.

Tasting notes: The 2017 Casa Castillo Pie Franco has a deep, dark color with a complex nose of ripe black fruits, such as black cherries and blackberries, complemented by spicy notes of licorice, tobacco and a touch of mineral earth. In the mouth the wine is full and powerful, with firm but refined tannins and a lively acidity that provides balance and freshness. The finish is long and layered, with persistent fruit and spice notes.

Storage potential: This wine has excellent storage potential and will only become more complex and interesting with age. Although enjoyable now, it will benefit from several years of bottle aging, which will further soften the tannins and integrate the flavors even more. The recommended drinking period runs until at least 2035

99/100 Parker