The Castillo de Jumilla Reserva 2018 is a premium red wine from the Jumilla DO (Denomination of Origin) in southeastern Spain, crafted primarily from the Monastrell grape, which is the region's signature variety. This wine is aged longer than the typical Crianza, giving it added depth and complexity, making it a more refined and structured wine.
Appearance:
The wine presents a deep, dark ruby color with some garnet tinges, showing its age and richness. It has an intense and vibrant hue that indicates a full-bodied wine.
Nose:
On the nose, the Castillo de Jumilla Reserva 2018 is expressive and complex. It opens with ripe dark fruits like blackberry, black cherry, and plum, alongside sweet spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla. These aromas are complemented by a subtle layer of toasted oak, adding hints of smoke, leather, and cedar. As it breathes, the wine also reveals nuanced earthy and herbal notes, with hints of moss, dried herbs, and a touch of tobacco, showcasing its time spent aging in oak barrels.
Palate:
On the palate, this wine is full-bodied with a rich, smooth texture. The dark fruit flavors from the nose carry through, with blackberries, plums, and a touch of dark chocolate adding to its intensity. The wine's tannins are firm and well-structured, but they have softened with age, creating a velvety mouthfeel. The acidity is balanced, offering freshness and lifting the wine without overpowering the fruit. The oak influence is more pronounced here, providing layers of smoky, spicy, and woody notes, all well-integrated into the fruit.
Finish:
The finish is long and elegant, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a subtle earthiness. The tannins gently fade, leaving a clean, balanced aftertaste that invites another sip.
Pairing:
The Castillo de Jumilla Reserva 2018 is a great match for a variety of hearty dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, or venison, as well as roasted game and BBQ ribs. It also complements rich, savory dishes like roast pork or mature cheeses (e.g., Manchego, Cabrales). Its complexity and depth make it an excellent choice to enjoy with spicy Mediterranean or Spanish cuisine, like chorizo or paella.
Overall, the Castillo de Jumilla Reserva 2018 is a well-crafted wine that showcases the best of Monastrell from Jumilla. With its ripe fruit, structured tannins, and integration of oak, this wine offers a full, complex experience that's perfect for those who enjoy bold, flavorful reds.
