Emilio Moro Bestizo 2024

Emilio Moro, a long-established Ribera del Duero house, makes Bestizo in D.O. Bierzo from Mencia, the signature red grape of this cool, Atlantic-influenced corner of north-west Spain. Bierzo's slate and clay soils and its sheltered, mild climate give Mencia its bright acidity, floral lift and fresh red and black fruit. The grape is naturally aromatic and moderate in tannin, which keeps the wine light on its feet at 13 percent. Ageing is eight months in foudre, large neutral oak vessels whose low surface-to-volume ratio means very gentle oxygen exchange, rounding the texture while leaving the fruit and the site clearly in front. The colour is bright cherry red. The nose shows ripe cherry, blackberry, plum and a peppery, herbal note over a slate-like earthy base. The palate is medium to light bodied, the acidity fresh, the tannin soft and fine, the finish clean and fruity. This is an approachable, modern Bierzo. Serve slightly cool at 14 to 16 degrees. It suits lighter meats and earthy autumn cooking.