Luis Seabra 2021 'Mono C' Castelao, Douro DOC

The 2021 Mono C is the only varietal Castelão from Douro. "It's an allowed variety in Douro, but this comes from the only Castelão vineyard I know in the region," Seabra told me. It has a paler color and a higher-pitched nose, with notes of red berries and spices, something earthy and a touch of rusticity. The palate is medium-bodied with some grainy tannins and freshness, a lighter Douro with less color and tannins. It fermented in concrete and matured in concrete and 2,500-liter Italian oak foudre. With time in the glass, the balsamic note is more moderate, and it becomes more elegant and floral.