Castra Rubra – CR 2010 – Thrace

Deep dense ruby core, it’s losing some colour towards the rim; it looks very ripe in terms of texture and viscosity. Some evolution on the nose due to a certain spiciness, yet with a good freshness because we have a herbal spiciness like mint, sage, combined with cassis and dark plum; gives me rather a Cabernet feeling. A slight hint of oak, but not really present. Palate is quite full, with a dense texture, with rich ripe dark fruit, cassis notes, some of that minty spiciness. Quite rounded. I do feel a high level of extract, but I think it’s just integrated recently here, so quite dense in terms of tannins. I think the oak is finely integrated as well; and again I confirm my impression of that Cabernet Merlot feeling with dark plum, dark cassis. It’s really a heavyweight in terms of density of fruit, but I think the proportions today are well-balanced. It offers a long aftertaste as well, with a certain complexity now emerging on the finish, with that spice box with the tobacco notes. Very interesting, I don’t know exactly what it is but I like it; it shows a good drinkability, yet with a lot of substance and power.

Tasted by the Best Sommelier of the World, Andreas Larsson.