Castel, Chardonnay "C" - 2007 and 2008 (K) 
 18.08.2009 
 By: Daniel Rogov

Whatever it is that Domaine du Castel is doing with Chardonnay, it surely seems that they are doing it right! Last night I had the opportunity to re-taste the 2008 and 2007 editions. My tasting notes follow.

Best
Rogov

Castel, Chardonnay "C", 2008 (Advance Tasting): Shining gold in color, opens with a seductive creamy and vanilla nose, those going on to reveal smoky oak notes. Full-bodied but seems to float on the palate and in the glass opens to reveal apricot, pear, fig and melon aromas and flavors, those supported by finely-tuned acidity and a generous mineral overlay. The longer this sits in the glass themore it shows its depth, complexity and elegance. Delicious now but best from mid-2010-2014, perhaps longer. Score 93. K (Re-tasted but not blind 12 Aug 2009)

Castel, Chardonnay "C", 2007: Bright shining gold with green and orange tints, a deeply aromatic wine, showing full-bodied and floral, with gentle notes of oak parting to reveal a deep array of peach, apricot and melon fruits, those supported very nicely indeed by notes of hazelnuts, vanilla and flinty minerals. On the long finish an enchanting note of bitter citrus peel. Drink now-2011, perhaps longer. Score 91. K (Re-tasted but not blind 12 Aug 2009)