RaulPerez,‘Ultreia’SaintJacques,Bierzo,2022

Juicy Bierzo with Very Fine Structure

“The nose is harmonious and subtle, and it doesn’t show any excess ripeness or heat. In fact, it is most impressive. It fermented with 100% full clusters and matured in used oak—barrels and foudres—for 14 months. The palate is medium-bodied, with a juicy texture and very fine tannins. It has a lot of fruit, but with time, it develops more complexity, with notes of fennel and aromatic herbs.” -Robert Parker

• Robert Parker 93/100
• 14 months in French oak barrels
• 100% Mencia

Cellaring: Drink now to 2029

Food Pairing: Iberian pork, roast duck with fruit sauce, and even dishes with hard cheeses like cheddar and Manchego. Additionally, it can handle hearty dishes like lamb, pork, and mushrooms.

STORY BEHIND THE WINE

Raúl Perez is a leading Spanish winemaker, operating his own label and acting as a consultant to other companies. He is most closely associated with the Bierzo region and the Mencia grape variety, but has projects in other parts of Spain. The Bierzo wines under the Ultreia banner – mostly reds based on Mencia – form the core of his personal portfolio. Ultreia means “onwards!” in medieval Latin; the brand pays tribute to pilgrims en route through the region to Santiago de Compostela.