Item Number: 6451 UPC: 8437008409399

Country: Spain
Region: Galicia Sub Region: Galicia
Appellation/AVA: Valdeorras DO
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Vintage: 2011
Grape(s): Mencia
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750ml Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Case Production: 5,000
Alc by Vol(%): 13.5
Viticulture: Certified Organic
Soil Type: Slate and granite with a thin clay subsoil
Winemaking Notes: The grapes are grown organically on a high-elevation estate in the mountain town of Larouco, in northwestern Spain. Soil is slate and granite with a thin clay subsoil. The winemaker limits yields in order to concentrate grape flavors. The cool temperatures from the Atlantic’s proximity make for a long ripening period. A 5-day, pre-fermentation cold soak with skins enhances the aromas, color, and flavor. After fermentation, the wine spends another 10 days with skins in tank. It sees no oak so that a sense of youthful freshness may be preserved.

Tasting Notes: Opulent and deeply colored with notes of blueberry liqueur, crushed rocks, spring flowers, and a hint of camphor. Medium- to full-bodied mouthfeel. 

Food Pairing: Try Roast Chicken with Herb Butter and Garlic  

About Galicia: Spain’s wettest region, on the northwest Atlantic, is home to many DOs: Rías Baixas, Ribeiro, Ribeira Sacra, Monterrei, and Valdeorras. Culturally, the region is closer to Portugal than to Madrid. Locals speak Gallego, which has much in common with Portuguese. Likewise, much of the wine is a kin to Portugal’s Vinho Verde. The Albariño grape in Rías Baixas is producing some of the most notable whites in Spain, while reds from the region are also slowly gaining ground.

90pts (2012 vintage) International Wine Cellar 10/2013
"Dark purple. Powerful aromas of candied blackberry, blueberry and licorice, complicated by violet and cracked pepper. Lush, intensely flavored and smooth, offering spicy dark berry and cherry compote flavors enlivened by a subtle floral nuance. Finishes sappy and long, with resonating spiciness, a hint of licorice and chewy tannins."