1999 Castano Hecula

The 1999 Hecula is a blend of 70% Mourvedre, 20% Tempranillo, and 10% Merlot aged six months in new American oak prior to being bottled with no filtration. It exhibits an opaque black color, and a dense, chewy, muscular personality with copious quantities of licorice-infused blackberry fruit, saddle leather, and roasted meat aromas as well as flavors. This full-bodied, powerful effort should drink well for a decade. While it is not the most refined style of red winemaking, for $10-12, it is an excellent value. The United States will receive 2,000 cases of this cuvee. Some of the Mourvedre (Monastrell) component is from 100-year old vines. Drink it over the next 8-10 years. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565