Olga Verde Toxo Villa de Otero 2022

Olga Verde Viéitez is an oenologist and viticulturist devoted to reviving the old vineyards of Bierzo, in north-west Castilla y León, and Toxo Villa de Otero is her Mencía from this terroir. Bierzo's reputation rests on its slate and schist soils and its old, low-yielding vines, which give Mencía a savoury, mineral character quite distinct from riper warm-climate reds. The region sits in a sheltered valley with an Atlantic-influenced climate, so the wines keep good acidity and a medium frame. The wine is aged eleven months in oak barrels, long enough to add structure and a little spice while leaving the fruit and minerality in the lead. At 13.5 percent it is medium bodied and balanced. The colour is a deep cherry red. The nose shows wild red and dark berries, cherry and liquorice, with a graphite minerality and a herbal, earthy lift drawn from the slate. The palate is fresh and savoury, with fine, slightly grippy tannins, black pepper spice and a stony finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits grilled red meats, game and mushroom dishes.