We love to work with individuals, who are in tune with their respective terroir. But of course some of these creative spirits always evolve, step by step, or as with Raul in leaps and bounds – such is their nature.
Born and raised in Bierzo, an area known for hilly valleys, and nearby Santiago de Compostela; this secluded region is loaded with soil rife with granite and slate, and is influenced by the Atlantic ocean. Raul creates several red wines from Mencia grape, which can be fragrant, delicate and fruity but also structured and tannic depending how it has been raised; there are camps that call it the “Pinot Noir of Spain”, while others are reminded of Cabernet Franc.
This fine entry-level is named Ultreia Saint Jacques. An easy to understand style by the whole-cluster wizard and Mencia specialist. The Decanter explains it was “fermented with natural yeast in old oak tanks using 100% stems and no temperature control. It undergoes malo in tank and then spends one year in old barrels. There’s no remontage or pigeage, and he works without sulphites.”
For us this vintage is less acidic as normal, and could blindly be guessed a floral Cotes du Rhone. Raul will visit Bangkok around 3rd and 4th November. Please contact us for planned events with him and Eulogio Pomares of Zarate.
“This is one of the best values from Bierzo and Spain, and a great introduction to Bierzo. It’s a more serious wine than what the wine was when it was first produced, fresh and elegant. It’s very reliable and a great value.” 93 points by Luis Gutierrez writing for Robert Parker.