D.O. Monterrei, Spain - 93 PARKER. Mencía, Bastardo, Garnacha Tintorera, Mouratón and Arauxa from different vineyards in different areas of the Monterrei valley. The grapes of the different vineyards cofermentado together with the autochthonous yeasts, part in stainless steel and partly in concrete tanks, with some whole clusters (with scraper). Some of the wine was aged in old oak barrels for 14 months, while the other part rested in concrete tanks. Subsequently the two parts were mixed and kept in the concrete tanks for three months before being bottled. In our opinion one of the best Galician wines in relation quality-price. A very Burgundian Monterrei. Recommended by El Sommelier.
Quinta da Muradella Alanda Tinto 2013
The first wine that Jose Luis labeled back in 2000 and the wine of more production and core of what Quinta da Muradella represents in Monterrei. Jose Luis Mateo is a cult winegrower recognized worldwide and his wines are increasingly sought after and acclaimed. Quinta da Muradella was born in 1991 with two vineyards that his father Alfonso worked for the bar of the house "A Canteira". Little by little, José Luis started buying grapes and started making bulk and experimental wines until in 2000 he launched his first Alanda red wine. José Luis works 14 Ha. Of own vineyard certified in ecological. It vinifies its plots separately but with all the varieties together, and adapts fermentations, times and ways of aging to the characteristics of the vintage but always trying to make fresh wines, something complicated in an area with the Monterrei climate. It carries out an artisanal work, with maximum care in its vineyards, sometimes inaccessible (such as the farms A Trabe, Notario, Muradella ...), respecting the environment, does not use any chemical product such as fertilizers, herbicides or treatments against diseases; simply follows natural procedures to preserve all the characteristics of the land and its environment. With an annual production of approximately 35,000 bottles, distributed among just over a dozen José Luis Mateo wines, it is in the minds of everyone who talks about wines that express the most of their native terroirs, wines of international renown.
The 2013 vintage was a wet vintage in Monterrei. A year of abundant rainfall in winter and moderate temperatures in summer that lengthened the cycle and ripening, resulting in more balanced wines with higher acidity and less alcohol.
Alanda Tinto 2013 is made with Mencía, Bastardo (Trousseau), Garnacha Tintorera, Mouratón (Juan García), Gran Negro and Arauxa (Tempranillo) from different vineyards in different areas of the Monterrei Valley. The grapes of the different vineyards cofermentado together with the autochthonous yeasts, part in stainless steel and partly in concrete tanks, with some whole clusters (with scraper). Some of the wine was aged in old oak barrels for 14 months, while the other part rested in concrete tanks. Subsequently the two parts were mixed and kept in the concrete tanks for three months before being bottled.
Alanda red 2013 has a cherry color of low layer. The nose has a moderate intensity with notes of fresh red fruit, balsamic like eucalyptus, bay leaf and aromatic and spicy herbs (white pepper) on an earthy background of undergrowth. In the mouth it has a medium structure, a magnificent balance between polished tannin, fresh acidity and alcohol with a slightly saline and balsamic finish that makes it very elegant. It is a wine that we have followed since it went on the market a few years ago and that has surprised us how well it has evolved. It has been tuned a lot during this time and is in a magnificent moment now. A bargain and a sample of why Jose Luis Mateo is so well considered.
Production: 13,000 bottles. 13% Alc.
Rating: 91 PARKER.
Optimal consumption: 2019-2022.
Pairing: poultry, white meats, potent dishes of fish, cod, tuna, monkfish, stews with vegetables and potatoes like Marmitako, or with spicy sauces and grilled meats.
