This large-format 3 Liter is a harmonious Super Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese that strikes a balance between power and elegance, our Lady of Castle will slowly reveal her secrets over the years.
♦ Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (Barrel Sample) (94 Points)
“Sweet tobacco, earthiness, dark red cherries, flowers and anise all meld together in the 2012 La Castellana, a wine that deftly balances rich fruit with structure. The long, vibrant finish is exceptionally polished. In 2012 the Castellana stands out for its harmony and overall balance.
♦ Cellar Selection - Wine Enthusiast Magazine (90 Points)
"Tightly woven tannins mark this blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese and 9% Merlot. From there, it’s a story of soft leather, black tar and rich, velvety blackberry, given 20 months in large French oak barrels. More time in bottle should help make friends of the disparate elements; drink through 2020."
♦ Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (90 Points)
"The 2012 Red Blend La Castellana is an unusual blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Round, seamless and quite pretty, the 2012 offers plenty of early and medium term appeal. Dark red stone fruits, spices, mint and anise are all supported by silky, polished tannins. Drink 2016 - 2027
♦ Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate (90 Points)
"The 2012 Proprietary Red Blend La Castellana is composed of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese and 9% Merlot. In central Italy, a wine such as this would be called a Super Tuscan. This outstanding offering reveals background oak, hints of new saddle leather, blackcurrants, cherries, licorice and underbrush, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, supple tannins, good acidity and a generous mouthfeel. The result is a wine that begs for a grilled Florentine steak. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years."
♦ California's Top 25 Wines - Paul Hodgins, Orange County Register
"This classic super Tuscan blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and sangiovese walks the fine line between untrammeled horsepower and refinement. Big-boned, silky, long in the finish, with a persistent vegetal quality." (Dec 20, 2016)
♦ ENOFYLZ Wine Blog (91-92 Points)
"Dark ruby color with expansive cassis, tobacco, black cherry, sandalwood, vanilla and a hint of floral aromas. On the palate it’s between medium and full-bodied and fresh with an elegant, harmonious character showing well integrated firm, velvety tannins with ample black cherry, plum, black and red currant and a bit of dark chocolate flavors. Long finish. Approachable now with a decant, but you’ll be rewarded cellaring a minimum of 5 years. Outstanding."