Goliardo Espadeiro 2023

Goliardo Espadeiro is a rare Atlantic red from Forjas del Salnés in D.O. Rías Baixas, made under the direction of Rodrigo Méndez and Raúl Pérez. Espadeiro is a nearly extinct Galician variety being recovered here, and the fruit comes from hundred year old vineyards. Rías Baixas is a cool, wet, maritime corner of north west Spain better known for white Albariño, and that cool climate keeps red grapes light in body, low in alcohol at 12.5 per cent and high in fresh acidity. The granite and sandy soils add a mineral, savoury character. The wine is made traditionally and aged twelve months in used French oak, chosen so the wood adds structure and slow softening without masking the fruit, from a single barrel in a very limited release. The colour is bright and pale. The nose shows red berries, redcurrant and cherry with black pepper, dried herbs and a floral, earthy lift. The palate is light and fresh, the tannins fine, the acidity bright through a savoury finish. The wine is closed when young, so aerate for at least thirty minutes and ideally an hour. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees. It suits grilled salmon, roast chicken and mushrooms.