Pizarras de Otero Rosado 2024

Pizarras de Otero is a single variety Mencía rosé from D.O. Bierzo, in the Sil Valley at the northwestern edge of Castilla y León, made by the Cuatro Pasos winery. The name refers to the slate soils, called pizarras, that define the area; these stony, well draining soils retain little water and reflect heat, while the surrounding mountains shelter the valley and moderate its climate. Bierzo sits at the meeting point of Atlantic and continental influences, giving warm days and cool nights that preserve acidity and aromatic freshness in Mencía. The grapes are picked to protect their aromatic potential, with brief skin contact to draw colour before a cool fermentation in stainless steel that keeps the wine fresh and primary. The colour is bright pale pink. The nose shows strawberry and raspberry with a subtle floral hint of rose and white flowers. The palate is light and dry, with crisp acidity, clean red fruit and a faintly mineral, saline finish reflecting the slate. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees. It suits grilled fish, shellfish, salads and lighter poultry.