Castel Petit Castel - 2005 - How long to breathe

[Menachem S]

Rogov, this wine is fairly early in the window, and probably on the young side.

Havent had any yet, but plan to start on it in the near future.

How long to open a bottle like this before drinking?

I was thinking 90 minutes before the meal.

Please advise, and perhaps some rules of thumb on how long for different wines/ages/etc.

Thanks

[Avi Hein]

As long as we're on the topic of the Castel Petit Castel, is there an updated tasting note for the 2006 vintage. There seemed to be a bit of "controversy" upon its release as the 2006 score was several points below past vintages. Is it showing better now or is there some kind of 2006 curse?

[Daniel Rogov]

Menachem...

With regard to opening the 2005 Petit Castel in advance of serving, I would think 30-45 minute would be fine.



Avi....

I have tasted the 2006 Petit Castel since my first tasting and stand firmly with my tasting note. Now I'll truly wait another year before re-tasting.

No 2006 curse....simply not an exciting vintage year all-around, so expect to see a minor drop in the quality of many Israeli wines from that year.


Best
Rogov

[Eli R]

Menachem, Hi,

I would think 20-30 minutes in the bottle will be enough. I usually pour a tasting sample to increase the surface size.
This wine is not that early in the window. Received "Drink now-2011" in Rogov's latest tasting:

Petit Castel, 2005: My earlier tasting note holds firmly: Petit Castel, 2005: A blend primarily of Merlot, supplemented by Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged in oak for 16 months, this appealing dark red-ruby aromatic wine opens with red berries and spices going on to black cherries, licorice and chocolate. Generous and with a tantalizing hint of sweetness on the long finish. Drink now–2011. Score 91. K (Re-tasted 17 Apr 2008)

Eli

P.S. - I did type my response before Rogov posted his, as you waited two days for an answer

[Daniel Rogov]

LOL........Can't win them all. And sometimes I do miss questions.

Best
Rogov

[Menachem S]

I found the wine to be very good, but really did seem young to me.

Very tight nose, almost nothing on the bouquet. And strong tannins evident.

This will be great in another 18 months I think.