2001 Castano Hecula

The 2001 Hecula (4,500 cases) was fashioned from 100% Monastrell (Mourvedre), non-irrigated, 40-year old vines. It was bottled with neither fining nor filtration after spending eight months in used French and American barrels. This amazing red possesses sweetness, suppleness, and superb purity, no small accomplishment for the normally astringent, tough-textured Mourvedre. Notes of graphite, blackberries, cassis, leather, barbecue spice, and smoke are followed by an earthy, rich, full-bodied, silky-textured wine that caresses the palate. It should drink well for 4-5 years. This is a cutting edge effort from one of Spain's backwater, but soon to be famous appellations. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565