2021 César Marquez 'Sufreiral' Mencia, BIERZO, SPAIN. 750ml
A particular favorite of mine, the 2021 Sufreiral comes from one of the few limestone-based soils in Bierzo, in the village of Toral de los Vados, the other, southwest-facing side of Pico Ferreira. It fermented in 1,000-liter vats, as he has different small plots that are vinified separately, with some 35% full clusters and indigenous yeasts (like all his wines). It matured in 500- and 600-liter oak barrels for 12 months. The wine has a moderate 12.73% alcohol and very good and integrated acidity. It has chalky minerality, great elegance, a tender palate with very fine tannins and a super tasty, almost salty finish. This is open, delicate and amazingly elegant, a little à a Ribeira Sacra. 97+ points, Luis Gutierrez, The Wine Advocate, August 2023.
