La Vizcaína El Rapolao 2023

La Vizcaína El Rapolao is a red from D.O. Bierzo made by the Raúl Pérez winery in Villafranca del Bierzo, León. It is led by Mencía with small amounts of Alicante Bouschet, Estaladina and Souson, drawn from north-facing vineyards on clay and iron-rich soils at Valtuille de Abajo. The north-facing aspect is the key to the wine's freshness: it shelters the grapes from the harshest afternoon sun, so they ripen slowly and hold their acidity and aromatic lift. The clay and iron soils give Mencía its mineral, savoury edge. Fermentation takes place in 5,000-litre wood vats, a large format that allows gentle oxygen contact without imposing oak flavour. The wine then ages twelve months in used French oak, chosen so the barrel adds texture and roundness rather than fresh wood tannin or vanilla. The result keeps the fruit fresh and the body light at 13.5 percent alcohol. The colour is bright and translucent. The nose is delicate, with wild raspberry, cherry, mountain herbs and white flowers over a mineral base. The palate is light and fresh, with fine tannin, lively acidity and a stony finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees. It suits roast poultry, pork and mushroom dishes.