Ultreia El Rapolao 2023

Ultreia El Rapolao is produced by Raul Perez in the D.O. Bierzo, in western Castilla y Leon, mainly from Mencia with a portion of the dark, deeply pigmented Alicante Bouschet. The El Rapolao site sits on the slate soils characteristic of Bierzo, where poor fertility and sharp drainage keep yields low and give the wine its mineral backbone. The region's climate combines continental and Atlantic influences, and the wide diurnal range during ripening preserves freshness and aromatic detail. The wine ages for twelve months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds spice while the Alicante Bouschet deepens the colour and lends extra body. The wine is deep and bright in the glass. The nose opens with fruity freshness, ripe cherry and blackberry alongside floral hints. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with red and dark fruit, fine tannins, a peppery, earthy thread and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees and decant young bottles. It pairs with roast and grilled meats, game and mushroom dishes.