Dominio do Bibei "Lalama" Tinto '19

Dominio do Bibei is a project based in the Bibei valley, in the Ribeira Sacra DO, in northwestern Spain. The vines are located on terraced clay, granite, and slate vineyards, and are biodynamically farmed. “Lalama” is produced mostly from Mencía (85%), with small amounts of the indigenous varieties Mouratón, Sousón, Brancellao, and Garnacha Tintorera lending extra shades of complexity. Mencía tends naturally toward reduction, so creating a blend is the best way to produce a balanced, elegant wine. Soft plum and red fruit flavors also show a savory streak, not dissimilar to really good Northern Rhône Syrah, in this case perhaps somewhere between St. Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage in style. 

The grapes for the 2019 were harvested by hand and underwent spontaneous fermentation in French oak vats of varying sizes, with a long, gentle maceration and daily pump overs. Before blending, the wine was aged for 15–18 months in French used barrels and foudres of various sizes. After blending, it was aged for additional three months in French oak, then aged in bottle for five months. Decant this one a couple hours before drinking if you can.

Organically cultivated fruit on beautiful vineyards, biodynamic practices, thoughtful winemaking—this is a benchmark wine that’s well worth trying. Pair this with lamb loin chops.