At a glance

Producer

Casa Castillo

Region

Jumilla, Spain

Grape variety

Monastrell

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$60

Tasting profile

Deep dark fruit aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and black plum, layered with mineral complexity, dried herbs, and cured meat notes.

Evolution: Over the next 5-10 years, fruit will integrate with tertiary notes of leather, balsamic, and earth.

At peak: In peak drinking years, the wine will display complex layers of dark fruits, silky tannins, and refined minerality.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high acidity supporting freshness

Tannins

Firm, well-structured

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years under proper cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2054

Optimal window

2022 to 2057

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

The wine currently shows vibrant fruit and firm tannins with good complexity.

Casa Castillo Pie Franco is known for high concentration and structured tannins from old vine Monastrell planted on unique soils. The 2017 vintage was very good in Jumilla with balanced ripeness and acidity, allowing long aging potential. This translates to a long peak starting approximately 10 years after vintage with full complexity achieved beyond a decade.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled red meats, game, aged cheeses, and dishes with Mediterranean herbs and spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To help open up the tightly packed tannins and release aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Casa Castillo maintains organic farming, avoids synthetic chemicals, uses drip irrigation efficiently, and uses natural biodiversity to support vine health.

Casa Castillo employs strong sustainability efforts including organic farming, water conservation, and eco-friendly packaging, resulting in a relatively low environmental impact compared to industrial wine producers.