Castra Rubra – Dominant 2011 – Thrace

Quite deep ruby red colour; slightly lighter, rusty towards the rim, with a high viscosity. Quite sweet nose indicating some evolution; there’s some slightly roasted notes here like coffee bean, red and dark berries, a hint of cassis. Good grip on the palate; modern style with well-integrated oak. In terms of weight, it’s between medium and full, somewhere. It’s a good density of fruit but I think the tannins are well settled here; good extract, good density of fruit. Still offering a nice sensation of ripeness, quite sweet fruit but still with a well-kept acidity. Quite long finish, and overall it gives a juicy and attractive fruit, juicy texture; good drinkability today but it certainly has the structure to keep evolving for another 5-6-7 years. Well-made.

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