The Crushed Grape

Castano Hecula Monastrell 2023

Regular price £10.75

A rich and expressive old-vine Monastrell from Yecla with ripe dark fruit, velvety tannins, and Mediterranean warmth. Powerful yet beautifully balanced.

This certified organic red wine is crafted entirely from the Monastrell grape variety. It exemplifies the rich, fruit-forward character typical of Monastrell wines from Yecla, offering a harmonious blend of ripe fruit flavours, balanced structure, and a smooth, lingering finish.

Produced by Bodegas Castaño, a renowned family-owned winery, and one of the leading Monastrell producers in Spain, crafting value-driven, fruit-forward wines that showcase the richness and complexity of the grape while remaining elegant and food-friendly.

Details
Spain
Yecla
Monastrell
750ml
14.5%
2023
Regular price £10.75
Description

Castaño Hecula Monastrell is a benchmark expression of Spain’s Yecla DO, a small but highly respected appellation in Murcia known for its concentration-driven Monastrell wines. The region’s hot, dry Mediterranean climate and limestone-rich soils create ideal conditions for low-yielding old vines, producing fruit of depth and intensity while preserving natural structure.

Crafted predominantly from old-vine Monastrell, the wine showcases the grape’s hallmark richness and character. Monastrell thrives in Yecla’s arid conditions, developing deep colour, dark fruit concentration, and firm yet velvety tannins. Careful vinification and maturation enhance balance and complexity while maintaining varietal purity.

Produced by Bodegas Castaño, a family-owned estate that has helped define the modern identity of Yecla wines, Hecula is one of the winery’s most recognised labels. The estate combines traditional vineyard heritage with modern precision, delivering wines that are both powerful and refined.

Style

A full-bodied Spanish red with blackberry fruit, spice, and Mediterranean warmth. Monastrell gives the wine richness and concentration, while freshness keeps it from feeling overly heavy.

In simple terms: a bold and warming Spanish red — dark, spicy, and excellent for lovers of fuller-bodied wines.

  • Appearance: Bright red-violet hue.
  • Aroma: Vibrant scents of ripe red cherries, plums, and blueberries, complemented by subtle toasted notes.
  • Palate: Succulent ripe black fruit flavors with notes of sweet spice and licorice. The wine is well-balanced, featuring supple ripe tannins and a delicate, enveloping, and rich finish.
  • Finish: Long and persistent, with spice and dark fruit lingering
  • Grilled Lamb or Lamb Ribs – The wine’s depth and tannic structure complement rich, herb-driven flavours.
  • Chargrilled Steak – Protein softens the tannins while enhancing the fruit concentration.
  • Barbecued Meats – Smoky flavours align with the wine’s ripe fruit and spice elements.
  • Slow-Cooked Beef Stew – The wine’s layered richness mirrors the depth of braised dishes.
  • Aged Manchego or Hard Sheep’s Cheese - Nutty, savoury cheeses balance the bold fruit and structure.
  • Serve at 16–18°C to allow its fruit concentration and spice to fully express themselves.
  • A decant of 30–45 minutes is recommended to soften the tannins and enhance aromatic development.
  • Use a large red wine glass to maximise aeration and showcase its rich profile.
  • This vintage is drinking beautifully now and will continue to evolve over the next 5–8 years if stored in cool, stable conditions.
Available for pickup at
Derrylin
Usually ready in 24 hours

5 The Market Place
Derrylin
Enniskillen BT92 9AN
United Kingdom

+442867748550