Palacios Pétalos del Bierzo 2021

The Palacios project was set apart from the others for various reasons: it actively searched for old vines located in steep slopes at high altitude in the vicinity of Corullón and applied vinification techniques that were less focused on extraction and more on highlighting terroir personality. Additionally, Ricardo is one of the first producers in Spain to farm his own vineyards following biodynamic principles. With its monastic past, its location right in the heart of the Camino de Santiago (The Way of St James), and a considerable amount of old vines perched on steep slopes, the Bierzo area must have felt like a small Atlantic Priorat to Álvaro Palacios. It has all the ingredients to produce Burgundy-style wines.

This wine is your gateway to Bierzo, Spain! Central Bierzo is home to the mencía grape. It is a sinuous basin framed by worn-out hills covered with continental scrubland and Atlantic greenery. Further up, in Corullón, the surrounding mountains and their ancient geology stand out. Scattered holm oak trees and fields of rockrose, heather and oregano cover the hillsides and knolls. Jovial and fragrant, the wine brings together all of the landscapes, flowers, soils and aspects of the region.

Tasting Notes

A very balanced vintage that shows moderate alcohol and great balance. It is very approachable right now. Dark cherries, plums, dried herbs and stones on the nose. Full-bodied with fine-grained tannins. Rich, layered, and textured with minerality and balance. Supple finish. Drink or hold.

Food Pairing

Pâté, cured meats and a beautiful roast with herbs of the Mediterranean.

Grape Variety: Mencia 

Country: Bierzo - Spain

Mencia

Spain, Bierzo