Castel Grand Vin

Castel is producing a superb Grand Vin.

 

Grand Vin Castel, 2007: The by now traditional Grand Vin blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, that fleshed out with Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Full bodied, dark and well extracted, firm on opening but yielding comfortably in the glass to reveal gently caressing tannins, notes of spicy oak and generous blackcurrant, blackberry and blueberry fruits, those supported by notes of mocha, orange peel and black olives. On the super-long finish a tempting note of licorice. Long, generous and coherent. Drink now-2015. Score 92 (Daniel Rogov)

 

Grand Vin Castel, 2006: Showing much as at a previous tasting. A blend focused on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, those flushed out with Petit Verdot and Malbec. Firm, solid and intense, dark garnet in color, full-bodied and firm on first attack but then opening to show a generous array of blackberries, black cherries, currants and dark chocolate. Dense, rich and complex, with hints of near-sweetness that toy comfortably on the palate, with tannins that grip comfortably and in fine balance with wood and fruits. Long and generous, muscular and intense but with a distinct note of elegance. Drink now–2013. Score 92. (Daniel Rogov)

 

Grand Vin Castel, 2005: Dark toward inky garnet with firm tannins now integrating nicely with spicy and smoky oak. Opens slowly in the glass to show a nose and palate of black currant, blackberry and purple plum fruits on a background of generous Mediterranean herbs and near-sweet tobacco. On the long finish hints of citrus peel, anise and dark chocolate. Drink now–2011 (Magnum 2010-2016). Score 92.  (Daniel Rogov)

Grand Vin Castel, 2004: Super-dark garnet toward inky black, full-bodied, with deep and still-firm tannins integrating nicely with smoky and spicy wood and fruits. Opens with blackberries and chocolate, those yielding to currants and raspberries and finally to an array of licorice and tobacco that play on the palate. Long, generous and elegant. Drink now–2011(Magnum now-2015). Score 93.  (Daniel Rogov)