A Torna Dos Pasas Escolma 2020

A Torna Dos Pasas Escolma is a top selection made by Luís Anxo Rodríguez, who founded his small Ribeiro winery in Arnoia, Ourense, in 1988. He farms 2.7 hectares across 29 plots, working local varieties at low yields on the region's sandy, siliceous slopes. This red blends the indigenous Ferrol, Brancellao and Caíño Tinto, Atlantic grapes marked by high acidity, aromatic red fruit and firm tannin, especially from Caíño. The sandy granite-derived soils and the cool, damp Atlantic climate keep the wine fresh and structured rather than heavy, at 13 per cent alcohol. Barrel ageing rounds the texture through slow oxygen exchange while preserving the aromatic lift and savoury character of the native grapes. The colour is medium ruby. The nose shows redcurrant, cherry and raspberry with thyme and a peppery, earthy note. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with firm, fine tannin, bright acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits game birds, lamb and mushroom dishes.