Abadía da Cova Loia 2021

Adegas Moure makes Abadía da Cova Loia in the D.O. Ribeira Sacra, a Galician region of steep slate and granite terraces cut into the slopes above the Sil and Miño rivers and worked by hand since Roman times. The poor, free draining stony soils restrict yields and force the vines to root deeply, while the cool Atlantic climate and wide swing between warm days and cold nights preserve acidity and lift the aromatics. Mencía leads the blend, with Brancellao, Caíño Tinto and Merenzao adding perfume and freshness. The fruit is organically grown, fermented and aged six months in oak barrels followed by two years in bottle, a gentle approach that keeps the wine bright rather than weighty. It is cherry coloured with violet edges. The nose stays fresh despite the barrel time, with red and black fruit, garrigue herbs and crushed stone. The palate is juicy and medium bodied, the tannins fine, the finish cool and savoury with a peppery, mineral lift typical of these granite terraces. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, in a standard red glass. It suits roast pork, herbed chicken and mushroom dishes.