El Rapolao Mencía 2023 by César Márquez
The El Rapolao Mencía 2023 is a distinguished red wine crafted by winemaker César Márquez in the Bierzo region of Castilla y León, Spain. Sourced from the cool, north-facing El Rapolao vineyard in Valtuille de Abajo, this wine reflects the unique terroir of the area. ​
 
Vinification and Aging
Grape Composition: Approximately 85% Mencía, 10% Alicante Bouschet, and 5% white and other red varieties. ​
 
Harvest: Hand-harvested from old bush vines planted in 1908, ensuring low yields and high-quality fruit. ​
 
Fermentation: Spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in 1,000-liter vats, incorporating 35% whole clusters. The grapes are gently foot-trodden, and the cap is manually submerged daily without breaking it. Maceration lasts for 14 days. ​
 
Aging: The wine is aged for 12 months in 500-liter French oak barrels that have been used four times previously. ​
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Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep ruby red with clarity and brilliance.​
Aroma: Aromatic notes of ripe red fruits, complemented by subtle hints of smoke and spice. The bouquet is expressive and elegant, reflecting the wine's complexity. ​
Palate: The wine is fresh and expressive, with polished tannins and a harmonious balance. Flavors of red berries are intertwined with herbal, smoky, and spicy nuances, leading to a persistent and nuanced finish. ​
 
Food Pairing
This versatile wine pairs excellently with red meats, game dishes, and mature cheeses. Its structure and complexity make it suitable for both romantic dinners and business lunches. ​
 
Serving Recommendations
Temperature: Serve between 14°C and 16°C to fully appreciate its aromatic profile and depth. ​
gourmethunters.com
The El Rapolao Mencía 2023 by César Márquez is a testament to meticulous winemaking and the expressive potential of the Bierzo terroir. Its limited production and distinctive character make it a noteworthy addition to any wine enthusiast's collection.