Geographically speaking, Castilla is a Spanish indication for Vino de la Tierra wines located in the region of Castile La Mancha. It’s quite a large region, the 3rd largest in Spain at about 30,600 square miles, around the size of Czech Republic. Vino de la Tierra is basically Spain’s answer to France’s Vin de Pays or country wine, a higher quality than a table wine.
The Garduno Cabernet was a pleasant surprise to us. After tasting various “affordable wines” that tasted sub-par, this one stood head and shoulders above the rest.
The nose is all dark, mossy, ripe fruit. The palate is full, with concentrated black berry flavors and hints of licorice, dusty cocoa powder, and black tea. Tannins are there to provide structure and a flash of acidity at the finish keeps the wine from feeling flabby.
This is a perfect wine for the best ever day after, or late evening in my house, Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Here’s how to build it: turkey, stuffing, and cranberry mayo on a toasted English muffin. Better make two. The fruity fullness of the wine is a great match with salty, savory goodness.
