Molinico Loco Monastrell

Country: Spain Region: Yecla

Varietal: Monastrell Vintage: 2024

Colour: Red Style: Dry

Producer: Castaño Estate

VINTAGE
2019 was hot and dry, in contrast to the previous year, with few significant weather events to cause concern. Some wet and windy conditions during flowering kept yields naturally to a modest level, followed by an early summer heatwave. Much welcomed September rain proved beneficial as harvest approached, allowing steady vine development. Harvest lasted well into October with favourable weather allowing them to bring in their fruit gradually and at the optimum ripeness. Grapes were healthy with modest bunch weights, boding well for intense colour and flavour.

PRODUCER
Molinico Loco is made by the Castaño family in Yecla and takes its name from the windmill ('molino') that sits on the edge of the vineyards where they produce their fruit. In contrast to other windmills, which turn in windy conditions, this particular windmill is "loco", the Spanish for crazy, as it turns only on calm, still days.

VINEYARDS
The vineyards are located at an altitude of 500 metres above sea level. They are dry-farmed and the clay soil is poor, meaning that the roots of the vines grow deep into the earth in their search for minerals and nutrients. This helps to ensure healthy, ripe and
concentrated fruit. The Monastrell vineyards are over 18 years old, while the Syrah vines are slightly younger, averaging around 15 years.

VINIFICATION
The grapes were gently crushed before being fermented and macerated on their skins for 10 days at a controlled temperature of 24-26ºC in stainless-steel tanks. After fermentation the wine was aged very briefly in oak, softening the tannins. The delicate grape processing preserved the natural purity of fruit and freshness that is typical of Molinico Loco's style.

TASTING NOTES
This wine is a beautiful, deep ruby colour, with purple hues on the rim. On the nose, it shows elegant ripe red plum and cherry notes. The palate is well structured, with supple tannins leading to a vibrant, fruit-driven finish.