Las Gundiñas 2023

Las Gundinas comes from La Vizcaina de Vinos, the Bierzo project of Raul Perez, a winemaker known for low-intervention reds that express their vineyards. The wine is a blend led by Mencia, completed with small amounts of Alicante Bouschet, Estaladina and Souson, from a single plot at the foot of a slope. The vines are planted in deep soil, which holds moisture and gives a fresher, more restrained style than the slate hillsides of the region, and the cool, Atlantic-influenced climate of Bierzo keeps acidity high and alcohol moderate at 13.5%. Made traditionally with minimal handling, the wine shows the floral, herbal side of Mencia rather than power. It is medium in colour, with a herbaceous nose of black cherry, red berries and a delicate floral note over an earthy base. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh, with crunchy red and black fruit, a peppery, herbal edge and fine, restrained tannins that carry into a savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled if you like. It suits roast poultry, game birds and mushroom dishes.