Number 29 on the Wine.com 100 of 2007! 100% Monastrell.Bodegas Castano has long been an advocate of the Monastrell varietal in the zone and its use has increased in other bodegas as a result. Known as Mourvedre in France and other parts of the world, the varietal is perhaps best known for its influence on the wines of Chateauneuf-du-Pape where the terroir and climate is not dissimilar to that of Yecla with both benefiting from a very warm, Mediterranean climate with warm days and nights. The 2004...

"The 2004 Hecula is a single vineyard selection of 100% Monastrell, 50% tank aged and 50% aged in French oak. It is slightly less ebullient but more serious than its younger sibling. Exhibiting aromas of toasty black fruits with milk chocolate in the background, this is a super-rich effort with terrific depth and concentration for its humble price. It is a remarkable value for drinking over the next few years."

This wine opens with an interesting tobacco and ashtray like aroma. On the palate, this medium bodied wine is very well balanced and has concentrated fruit flavors. This wine would pair well with b...

Rating: 91/100 - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 169 on Feb-07