Grown on steep, terraced granite slopes in far northern Spain, the Ribeira Sacra boasts a winemaking history that goes back to Roman times. The difficulty of working these slopes caused many of the region’s finest vineyards to be abandoned in the 20th century. Fortunately for wine lovers, these terraced slopes are being rediscovered and rededicated to the production of wine. High above the River Sil, Maria Jose Yravedra lovingly crafts a complete portfolio of Ribeira Sacra’s finest wines. Her Vel’uveyra (“gaze at the vineyard” in ancient Galician dialect) is crafted from 100% Mencia grown at 1,000-1,500 feet above sea level. A crimson-tinged ruby hue in the glass, Ronsel do Sil’s Vel’uveyra Mencia casts smoky, granite-inflected aromas of black cherries, licorice, and violets. Light, silky, and transparent in the mouth, the wine balances bright cherry and raspberry fruit with savory tannins, vivifying acidity, and lovely kiss of French oak. Smoky, meaty, and refreshing, the Vel’uveyra finishes with added suggestions of cracked pepper, anise, cinnamon, tobacco, and persistent waves of smoky cherry fruit. This is one delicious and drinkable wine that will make a lovely partner over the coming three years for paellas, tapas, grilled mushrooms and meats, and braised rabbit.
Sustainably farmed.
A February 2018 newsletter selection
