Peixe da Estrada 2020

Peixe da Estrada is a red field blend made by Bodegas Peixes in Viana do Bolo, Ourense, the new venture of Jesús and Curro of Fedellos do Couto. The estate sits outside any denomination of origin, high in the Ourense massif between Valdeorras and Ribeira Sacra, on five hectares of vineyards exposed to the cold right at the edge of where grapes will ripen. The blend brings together Garnacha Tinta, Godello, Grao Negro, Mencía and Mouratón, co-planted in old Galician fashion and vinified together. Granite and slate soils and sharp diurnal swings at altitude hold acidity and give the wine a fresh, mineral and gently structured character rather than weight. Twelve months in used French oak settles the tannins and adds quiet spice without colouring the fruit. At twelve and a half per cent it is a light, energetic style. Expect a bright medium ruby, a nose of red berry, plum, crushed herbs and pepper, and a fresh, medium-bodied palate with crunchy fruit, fine tannin and a stony, savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, with a short chill if you like. It suits grilled pork, roast chicken and mushroom dishes.