Ultreia El Rapolao, Bodegas Castro Ventosa 2020

The 2020 Valtuille El Rapolao feels lighter and more open than the 2021 I tasted next to it, the tannins a little more present. This comes from a centenary plot planted with a field blend that was vinified together with 30% full clusters and indigenous yeasts, and the wine matured in 500-liter French oak barrels for one year. Some 1,700 bottles were filled in December 2021. 2023 - 2032

From one of the coolest sites in Valtuille that contains some 100+ year old vines. Aged in used oak for a year. The Rapolao sits more at the Syrah end of Mencia. Blueberry and cherry fruit come together with a note of black pepper and wild woody herbs. The palate has density and flesh with more steeped cherries and blueberry, yet there is styll an underlying freshness that defines the Castro Ventosa wines this year. Succulent and long with a chalky texture, the finish is layered with dried violet, savoury herbs and pure hedgerow fruit. Excellent.