Ladeiras do Xil 'Gaba do Xil' Mencia, Valdeorras, Galicia, Spain 2019

  Farming: Certified Organic Variety: 70% Mencía and 30% Merenzao  Terroir: The primary vineyard lies inland at 400-500m in altitude, near the town of Larouco, which has an Atlantic influence due to the location in a valley that forms an outlet to the sea. The blend also contains grapes from estate vineyards in Santa Cruz and Las Ermitas. 20 to 80 year old vines grown in granite.  Vinification: After a manual harvest and grape selection in the vineyard, the wine is fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. Aging: 12 months in stainless steel. Bottled with minimum sulphur.  Tasting Note: Gaba do Xil is a wonderful expression of an Atlantic influenced red wine that is always fresh, expressive, and food-friendly. Aromas of smoked red cherry, fresh red plum, hints of black tea and an earthy backbone reminiscent of fresh pencil shavings.