Envinate 2019 Lousas Vinas de Aldea Mencia 750ml

The regional red from Ribeira Sacra (but sold without appellation of origin), the 2019 Lousas Viñas de Aldea wants to reflect the region through different altitudes, orientations, zones (Amandi, Bibei and Ribeiras del Sil) and soils (mostly gneiss, slate and granite). It's mostly Mencía with some 20% Merenzao, Brancellao, Caíño, Sousón, Mouratón, Alicante, Godello and Palomino, etc., from vines ranging from 15 to 60 years of age to represent the region and vintage. 2019 was a healthy and balanced vintage when they harvested between September 11th and 26th. It fermented in concrete and open plastic bins with 70% to 100% full clusters. It matured in a combination of concrete, barrels of different sizes and a 2,000-liter oak foudre for 11 months without racking. This is superb, the best vintage so far, with real depth and complexity, clarity and precession. This is super floral and expressive, impressive, with a consistent and seamless palate with layers and depth. And it's a bargain too. 28,000 bottles and 300 magnums produced. It was bottled in December 2020. They compared 2019 with the 2014, as if 2019 was an upgraded version (with more complete ripeness) of 2014.

Score: 95 points -- Luis Gutiérrez, The Wine Advocate, 2022

The quartet of friends who make up Envínate work across Spain. This is their Galician village wine, and shows a deep understanding of their soils. The palate is intense, offering cranberries, sour cherries and raspberries, layered with basil and fresh herbs. It’s like a walk in the country, harvesting wild brambles. Excellent balance with lovely freshness. A blend of 12 parcels, and a blend of grapes supporting the Mencía. Foot-trodden; aged in used barriques.

Score: 95 points -- Sara Jane Evans, Decanter, 2021