At a glance

Producer

Castillo de Monjardin

Region

Navarra, Spain

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

USD $12-18 / 750ml (as of 2024 Q2; retail, tax excl.)

Tasting profile

Fresh aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, and plum with subtle green pepper and spice; medium body, fine tannins, lively acidity, hints of cedar and vanilla from light oak influence.

Evolution: Over the next 2-3 years, fruit will become more integrated, tannins will further resolve, and earthy, savory, and tertiary notes (graphite, tobacco) may emerge. Oak nuances will mellow.

At peak: Supple texture, harmonious tannin-acid balance, fruit and subtle spice/earth notes in equilibrium. Expect rounded mouthfeel with expressive but not overpowering flavors.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity giving freshness; sufficient for short-term development but not designed for extensive aging

Tannins

Medium, fine-grained tannins providing shape; currently integrating but still slightly firm, will soften further with short aging

Alcohol

Typically 13.5%-14% ABV for this cuvée; well integrated and not overpowering

Aging potential

2-5 years from vintage; not intended for long-term cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2026

Optimal window

2023 to 2027

Current status

Ready to drink; can benefit from short-term aging

Current condition

Youthful, fresh, showing primary fruit with integrated tannins and balanced acidity

2024-2026 is peak as the wine benefits from recent bottle age, which softens tannins and allows primary fruit and subtle secondary characteristics to shine. The structure is not robust enough for long-term aging, so freshness and fruit are at their best within this window. After peak, fruit will decline, acidity may dominate, and the wine may lose vibrancy.

Food pairing

Excellent with roasted or grilled meats (lamb, beef), traditional Spanish dishes (chistorras, chorizo, jamón ibérico), herbed poultry, and aged cheeses (Manchego, Mahón). As the wine softens with age, pairings with more nuanced dishes like mushroom risotto or roasted vegetables will also shine. At peak, embrace earthy or peppery accompaniments to bring out subtle tertiary notes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are currently integrating but still slightly firm. Decanting will help soften the tannins and enhance the wine's aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

IPM (Integrated Pest Management), water conservation, limited synthetic chemical use, support for biodiversity

Castillo de Monjardin employs sustainable vineyard management and regional certifications, but does not hold international organic or biodynamic labels. Reduction in chemical inputs and water use, but some conventional practices remain. Carbon footprint is moderated by sustainable practices in the vineyard but impacted by exports.