Maruxa Mencía 2019 2024

Maruxa is a Mencía red made by Virgen del Galir in D.O. Valdeorras, in inland Galicia. The winery, owned by CVNE since 2018, farms around twenty small plots set more than 600 metres above sea level on slate and granite soils. These steep terraces in the Sil Valley hold century-old vines, recovered from abandonment, and the combination of altitude and poor, fast-draining rock keeps yields low while preserving freshness in the fruit. The Atlantic-influenced climate brings cooler temperatures and a wide day-to-night range, which locks in the bright acidity that defines Mencía from this corner of Spain. The wine is made in a young, fruit-forward style, with vinification focused on capturing the variety's perfume rather than masking it with heavy oak. The colour is a deep violet-tinged red. The nose shows fresh raspberry and cherry, dark plum and a floral note, lifted by black pepper and the cool, stony minerality the slate gives. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with fine tannin and a savoury, earthy finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees. It suits roast duck, game birds and mushroom dishes.