2009 is the latest vintage of Domaine du Castel’s second wine, Petit Castel. Typically more muscular, vibrant, and fruit-forward than the winery’s flagship Grand Vin, Petite Castel is a consistent winner that should not be overlooked. Near-purple in the glass, this wine opens with sweet and rich raspberry, tart red currants, hints of vanilla, and generous oak. It is medium-to-full bodied with gripping tannins and mouth-puckering acidity, both marked signs of youth. The finish is very long with sweet tannins rising and gradually fading into a long note of citron that is capped by toast. While somewhat intense at the moment, this wine will settle down in 5-7 months and, with its even balance, will cellar comfortably for the next 5-6 years. Enjoy!

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