Castell d´Encus Quest 2012

Castell d'Encús is a unique and very “personal” business. It emerged from Raül Bobet’s in-depth study of climate change representing one of the great challenges facing mankind and the wine world in the near future. Bearing climate change in mind, he therefore set up his business in Talarn, a region of Pallars Jussà in the Lledia Pyrenees. It includes spectacular vineyards at an elevation of between 850 and 1000 metres above sea level, planted with many cool-climate grape varieties, and a winery which blends into its landscape. Old lagares (stone vats) dug in the rock ​​by the monks of the Hospitaller Order in the 12th century have been recovered and are now being used to ferment wine again.

Castell Encús’ wines are fresh, authentic and audacious and always aim for the highest quality. Today, this winery possesses 23 hectares of vineyards. It was the first to use the cold/heat transfer processes of geothermal energy in all its processes in an effort to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.  All the wines are produced with total respect for the land applying meticulous organic growing methods.

Appearance

Bright, intense cherry. Very attractive.

Nose

Notes of red and black fruit immediately leap out on the nose, then give way to aromas of Mediterranean herbs, balsamic notes and hints of incense.

Palate

Smooth and lively. Delicious tasting with ripe tannins that melt into an enveloping, retro-nasal acidity with fruit flavours. Particularly fresh and juicy.

Comment

This wine is a blend of the Bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot.  It has been entirely fermented in stone lagares with natural yeasts and aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. The soils are mainly calcareous loam, low in organic content, and the climate is continental with an important contrast in day and night-time temperatures.

Quest 2012 is a tremendously well-balanced wine that brings together many of the characteristics that we like to find in a good wine: fruit, finesse, freshness and depth. Well done!

Recommended with oven-roasted rabbit with herbs.