Ailalá – Ailalelo Ailalá Sousón 2022

Ailala-Ailalelo is the youthful label from Coto de Gomariz in D.O. Ribeiro, in Galicia's green northwest, made with oenologist Inma Pazos and sommelier Miguel Montoto. This red is built on Souson, a dark indigenous Galician variety prized for colour, firm acidity and a savoury, peppery character. Ribeiro sits inland along river valleys on granite and slate soils, with an Atlantic-influenced climate that keeps nights cool, so the grapes hold freshness as they ripen. The wine sees only four months in barrel, enough to settle the tannins and add a light frame while keeping the fruit and acidity to the fore rather than layering in heavy oak. It pours a vivid purple-red. The nose shows cherry and wild berry with floral hints of violet and lilac and a touch of black pepper. The palate is medium bodied and bright, the tannins fine grained, with red and dark fruit carried by Souson's natural acidity to a fresh, savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled if you prefer. It works with grilled pork, roast poultry and tomato-based dishes.