The 2021 Bodegas Casa Castillo Las Gravas is a red proprietary blend from the Jumilla region of Spain, produced by Casa Castillo. This wine has garnered significant attention in the wine community, particularly for its quality and unique characteristics.
According to Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, which awarded it an impressive score of 98 points, the 2021 Las Gravas is crafted from grapes sourced from a vineyard planted in 2006. The review highlights that this vintage continues the high-quality trend seen in the previous year, 2020. The blend predominantly consists of Monastrell, with a minor inclusion of 8% to 12% Garnacha. Reviewer notes emphasize that the wine possesses a "fine-boned profile" with notable freshness and typical Monastrell varietal notes. The wine is described as "rustic-elegant," a term that suggests a balance between earthy authenticity and refined sophistication.
One of the standout features of this wine is its powerful and energetic profile, which is balanced by a 15% alcohol content. The finish is described as having a "chalky, rocky, stony sensation," indicative of the terroir of the Jumilla region. The 2021 vintage matured entirely in oak foudre, as Casa Castillo has moved away from using 500-liter barrels for this wine and its Pie Franco counterpart. This decision is part of a longer élevage process, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and balanced.
Production has increased to 37,905 numbered bottles, a testament to the growing recognition and demand for this wine. Bottling took place in June 2023, following the extended aging process.
In summary, the 2021 Bodegas Casa Castillo Las Gravas is a remarkable wine that exemplifies the best qualities of the Jumilla region. Its high score from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate and detailed description of its characteristics make it a noteworthy choice for wine enthusiasts seeking a blend of power, elegance, and regional authenticity.