Las Lamas 2010

Descendientes de J. Palacio was created in 1999 in the Corullón area of Leon by Alvaro Palacios and his nephew Ricardo, alma mater of the project who literally overflows with energy. It possesses a total of 27 hectares and a selection of parcels of high quality, old vines, a constant element in his quest for the perfect Mencia. His wine-making is governed by biodynamic principles resulting in fresh wines with character and expression that show the greatness of the Mencia grape variety, a perfect illustration of the unique character of wines from the Bierzo region. The vineyards are scattered in small parcels growing at different altitudes reflecting the rugged, hilly terrain of very steep slopes.

Appearance

Crimson cherry red hue with purple highlights, very clean and bright.

Nose

Very clean and fresh, packed with red fruit. Very marked balsamic notes with toasted notes coming through later.

Palate

Silky and elegant with smooth, harmonious tannins. Not too much weight on the palate but still very fruity. Mineral, slightly spicy aftertaste with very subtle hints of roasting.

Comment

Las Lamas 2010 is produced in a locality of the same name and is made up of three parcels of very old vines with tiny yields growing on the vertiginous slopes of the Bierzo vineyards. It is gently aged for about 14 months in French oak barrels and the result is a wine of great elegance and high definition. It perhaps lacks some of the power delivered to its counterpart Moncerbal, more opulent in all its facets. This wine is distinctive for its harmony and subtlety with delicious fresh fruit very evident on the nose and palate. Although it should age well in the coming years, it is surprising how pleasant and approachable the 2010 is now. A special food pairing to really set it off would be boned lamb with cherries.