Moncerbal 2020

I find the 2020 Moncerbal a little more closed than the other 2020s, darker and serious. It's still moderately ripe, with 13.8% alcohol, sweet tannins and a soft texture. Today it shows a little austere and very calm—it whispers. It's quite discreet. It was bottled in October 2021, during the 2021 harvest. This is already certified organic from 2020 onward. Approachable already. 5,000 bottles were filled in October 2021. These wines were usually bottled in January/February of the following year, so in 2020 they had a shorter élevage in barrel. The wines were ready earlier.

This is from a hillside vineyard in Corullón with poor, rocky soil. Analytically it might be hard to locate the actual minerals in the wine, but nevertheless there’s a distinct crystalline character. It’s exceptionally aromatic; bright with Mencia's cherry fruits. Then in the mouth it’s a sun burst of freshness. Very long, resounding finish, with firm tannins, and a herbal, savoury edge.

Lovely reduction to the tangy white pepper, smoke, fresh red berries, blueberries, flint and a hint of orange. Very linear and tight, with immaculate, silky tannins that are dialed into the berry fruit and fresh herbs. Long and bright. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but better after 2023.