Beirzo

Descendientes de José Palacios Corullón 2003

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Castilla y Leon is a little region called Bierzo.  It is high up in the hills and hides a number of very old (50-100 years old) vineyards planted with an odd little grape called Mencia.  It is apparently a clone of Cabernet Franc brought to the region by french pilgrims on their way to Santiago and has mutated in mencia.  The region started to gain popularity again in the late 80s and has attracted new investment and talented winemakers and viticulturists to develop the region into something similar to Priorat. 

This wine is made by Alvaro Palacios and is named after the nearby town of Corullon.  The hills are very steep and must be worked by traditional methods, mostly the work is performed by hand and horse. Modern winemaking methods come into play to make this great expression of the region.

A very intense and gloriously complex nose of dark berry fruit, minerals, flowers and a touch of pepper and spice.  At this stage the palate is full bodied and structured, it cries out for time in the cellar.  Blackberry and blueberry notes with some animally complexity and minerals in the mouth. Good tannins and it has the acid to live a long time.  A good long finish.  I would avoid opening this for 2-4 years and then enjoy over 5 years.  94 Pts.

Source: Boccaccio Cellars Price: $80 Closure: Conventional Cork