Petit Pittacum 2024

Petit Pittacum is a young Mencía from the Pittacum winery in Bierzo, the region west of León where the variety is native. The grapes come from old vines on steep clay slopes in the mountainous part of the appellation, oriented east and north, an exposure that limits direct sun and gives the wine its marked Atlantic character. Bierzo sits between the wet greenness of Galicia and the dry Castilian plateau, and this cool, damp influence preserves freshness, perfume and a fine line of acidity in the fruit. The harvest is done by hand, and the wine sees only three months in oak barrel, a short ageing that settles the tannins and adds a little texture while keeping the focus firmly on bright fruit rather than wood. The colour is a vivid red. The nose is fresh and floral, with cherry and wild strawberry over violet and a herbal, earthy undertone, while the palate is light to medium bodied, lively and easy with red fruit, red currant and a peppery savoury edge. The finish is clean and fresh, helped by its modest 13.5 percent alcohol. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 16 degrees. It pairs well with poultry and lighter dishes.