(2025) Though Argentina equals Malbec for many people, the Bonarda grape is another stalwart of the country and its second most planted red variety. From vineyards in Mendoza at an altitude of 620 metres, this was fermented in concrete tanks and used oak barrels with wild native yeasts. Part of the blend was then aged in French oak. It's a supple, smooth and sumptuous style, with plenty of dark bramble and cassis fruit, but there is a great spiciness and core of fresh, tangy cherry acidity that cleanses and freshens the finish. Tannins are modest, but the overall impression is of well-balanced drinkability. Watch the video for more information.
(2025) From the single vineyard 'As Ermitas' which is just one hectare in size and sits at 750 metres altitude, the vines here very old, planted in 1958. It is dominated by Mencia, but a variety of local grapes are co-planted in this vineyard. Six second-use barrels were produced, the wine fermented with native yeasts and spending 12 months oak. There is warmth to the colour of this 2020 wine compared to the purple of the younger wines tasted, and a sweet and spicy bramble and earth profile that also carries a floral touch. In the mouth the acidity of the Mencia grape slices through the richness afforded by the barrel ageing and development of the ripe fruit. This finishes long, with a spicy edge to the fruit and tannins. Watch the video for more information.
(2025) Virgen del Galir winery is located in Éntoma on Galicia and has been part of the CVNE family since 2018. This Godello comes from premier cru vineyards, and sees no oak. There's an immediate firmness, the nose herbal and reminiscent of fruit skins and peel. In the mouth that strict and mouthwatering quality has real definition: there's a citrus and salts acid drive to this wine, which is grippy with a phenolic presence. It tingles on the tongue with minerality and pithy but rich texture and substance.