With Hart, yizhen, Sloke, Sean and Tabs.

YUM. Castel again; first time with the 2013 vintage. Wine was from Sean.

I keep saying this: they are the best Brunellos under 125.

2013 was a very strong classic vintage for Tuscany and the Sangiovese grape. So I was very excited. Decanted in a wide based decanter for 1.5 hours.

In the glass: dark garnet with a solid core. Mid body.

On the nose: primary notes of dried red fruits, almost dried cranberries, surprisingly not much cherry at all, rich, intense, balanced oak.

On the palate: high intensity of fruit on the palate. Mid+ acidity. Surprisingly long finish! Alcohol was certainly elevated but remained well integrated.

This was delicious. I always love that Castels have that layer of complexity beyond standard Brunellos and their cherries.