Michelini i Mufatto Post-Crucifixión 2021

Post-Crucifixión is the work of Gerardo Michelini and Andrea Mufatto, who left Argentina for the slate hills of Bierzo and settled near Ponferrada. It is a field blend of the native Mencía with Merenzao, Brancellao, Godello and Palomino, the red and white grapes vinified together as growers once did. At only 11.6 per cent alcohol it sits firmly in the light, perfumed style, the early picking holding acidity and the low ripeness keeping the wine fresh and floral rather than dense. The decomposed slate of Bierzo gives drainage and a clear graphite minerality. Ageing is 12 months in used French oak, the older barrels giving gentle structure and air without adding new-wood flavour, so the fruit and the perfume stay to the front. It pours a bright, light ruby. The nose is fresh red berry and cherry with rose and red currant, earth and a thread of thyme. The palate is light and lively, with low, fine tannin, bright acidity and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 13 to 15 degrees, lightly chilled. It is flexible at the table and can stand in for a white.