Gaba do Xil Tinto, Telmo Rodríguez 2017

Valdeorras is a region in Galicia which has a long history of winemaking, but a short memory when it comes to wider public knowledge in the UK. Here, the Atlantic has a cooling influence over the vineyards, and provides perfect growing conditions for the grape variety, Mencía. Providing wonderful contrast to the vast amounts of Tempranillo grown throughout the rest of the country, Mencía from this corner has a lovely expressive freshness. Gaba do Xil is fermented with native yeasts and then matured for 12 months entirely in stainless steel, to maintain that freshness. Aromatic, cherry fruit, a touch savoury and earthy, and a gorgeous lightness of touch.