El Pecado 2023

El Pecado is made by Raul Perez, one of Spain's most respected winemakers and a champion of the Mencia grape, working at the Guimaro family cellar in D.O. Ribeira Sacra. It is a single-variety Mencia from vines around 100 years old, planted on steep terraces cut into the river canyon on the region's granite and slate soils. The gradient and the poor rocky ground keep yields tiny and ripening slow, while the Atlantic-influenced climate and cool nights hold the natural acidity that defines these wines. Farming follows a respectful, low-intervention approach. The wine ages 12 months in oak barrels, which rounds the tannins and adds a gentle smoke and spice without masking the fruit. Expect a medium-bodied red, bright ruby in colour, with wild raspberry, cherry and plum on the nose lifted by violet and crushed pepper. The palate is fresh and tightly mineral, the slate giving a graphite, stony grip and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees, decanted briefly. It suits roast game birds, lamb and mushroom dishes.