Can Ràfols dels Caus Caus Lubis 2006

Can Ràfols dels Caus sits in the Massís del Garraf in Penedès, where Carlos Esteva planted Merlot in 1981 with Pomerol as his reference. Caus Lubis is made entirely from that Merlot. The defining feature here is the limestone soil of the Garraf massif, which gives freshness, fine tannin and a mineral edge that keeps warm-climate Merlot from turning heavy. The Mediterranean climate ripens the fruit, while the calcareous subsoil holds acidity and lends structure for ageing. Twelve months in French oak adds a measured spice frame, and slow oxygen exchange over the years in bottle has softened the tannins and brought tertiary development. This is a mature wine, and the 2006 has had long time to evolve. The colour shows a garnet edge typical of age. The nose leads with ripe dark fruit, plum and blackberry, intertwined with balsamic, leather, tobacco and a mineral note. The palate is medium-bodied and savoury, the tannins resolved and soft, the finish long and earthy. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant gently. It suits roast beef, game and mushroom dishes.