La Poulosa 2022

La Poulosa is made by La Vizcaína de Vinos in Bierzo, in the far north-west of Castilla y León, from two hectares of old vines aged between sixty and eighty years in one of the warmer spots of Valtuille. Mencía leads the blend, joined by the local Bastardo and Garnacha Tintorera. Bierzo sits where Atlantic and continental influences meet, giving warm days and cool nights that keep the wine fresh and aromatic, while the shallow, clay-rich soils lend a firm mineral grip. The old vines are hand-harvested and the wine is aged twelve months in used French oak, chosen so the barrel adds structure and a little air without new-oak flavour masking the fruit and the site. Expect a bright red colour and a perfumed nose of fresh cherry and red berries with violet, dried herbs and a stony edge. The palate is medium-bodied and lively, with juicy red fruit, gentle tannin and a fresh, savoury finish shaped by the clay. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, and a light chill suits it in warm weather. Good with poultry, pork and mushroom dishes.