Bernardo Estévez y Xico Mandín 2023

Bernardo Estévez and Xico Mandín farm in the demanding country of inland Galicia, where steep slopes, granite soils and frequent rain shape a viticulture rooted in local varieties and old vines. This red blends Mencía with Sousón and Tinta Amarela, the Mencía giving ripe red fruit and a peppery lift, the Sousón adding colour, acidity and a darker, savoury depth. The granite-based soils drain freely and give the wines their cool, mineral tension, while the cool, wet Atlantic climate keeps the natural acidity high and the alcohol moderate. The fruit is farmed biodynamically. The wine is aged nine months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood rounds the tannin and integrates the fruit without dominating it, the oak kept measured so the origin shows through. Expect a bright ruby red with ripe strawberry, cherry and plum over black pepper, dried herbs and a stony, earthy minerality. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh, with fine tannin, lively acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees. It suits grilled beef, roast pork and mushroom dishes.