Casar De Burbia Hombros 2022

Hombros is a Bierzo red made by Casar de Burbia from Mencía, taken from old vines between fifty and a hundred years old on selected plots. Most sit on slopes at a minimum altitude of 600 metres, where the soils carry slate, clay, iron and aluminium, the mineral-rich mix typical of the region. Slate warms in the day and holds heat, helping Mencía ripen fully while the altitude keeps the nights cool and preserves acidity. That balance is what gives the wine its fresh, mineral shape. Old vines carry a small, concentrated crop, which deepens the fruit and structure. The wine ages twelve months in French and American oak, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannin and adds a light spice and vanilla frame. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows dark cherry and red berries over black pepper, liquorice and a stony, earthy note. The palate is medium to full bodied, with fine tannin, bright acidity and a long, savoury finish. Decant it half an hour ahead and serve at 16 to 18 degrees, with roast lamb, grilled beef or game.