The Jumilla from Casa Castillo is made from younger vines sourced mainly from La Valle vineyard where the soils are silty and the grapes have more of a varietal expression than his rockier vineyards. Once labeled Monastrell José Maria has been incorporating increasing amounts of Garnacha and Syrah into this wine so that now it is about 60% Monastrell with 20% each Garnacha and Syrah. After a natural fermentation in tank the wine is aged for 8-9 months in neutral 500 liter French oak barrels, and foudres.
The perfumed, floral and elegant 2021 Monastrell has 15% Garnacha (the maximum allowed if the wine is called Monastrell), as it’s from a year that had more Garnacha vines, and he keeps planting the variety in the property because it gives the blend more elegance and freshness. The Monastrell matured in used barrels for eight to nine months, and the Garnacha matured in concrete. It’s juicy and tasty, with fine-grained tannins and 14.5% alcohol but with great balance. It’s Mediterranean with elegance. Great value. 190,000 bottles produced. 93pts Parker’s WA