At a glance

Producer

Raúl Pérez

Region

Castilla y León, Spain

Grape variety

Mencía

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-40 USD

Tasting profile

Bright red and black fruits (cherry, raspberry, blackberry), fresh herbal notes, subtle floral lift, stony minerality, light oak influence (if any).

Evolution: Fruity freshness will mellow; earthy, spicy, and tertiary notes (graphite, dried flowers, forest floor) will emerge with age.

At peak: From 2025-2027, expect optimal harmony of fruit, earthy mineral depth, and silky texture.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, freshening

Tannins

Medium, gently grippy

Alcohol

12.5-13.5%

Aging potential

5-7 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2027

Optimal window

2024 to 2029

Current status

Youthful but approachable

Current condition

Fresh and vibrant, showing aromatic purity and youthful structure

The wine’s youthful tannins and vivid acidity support short-to-medium term cellaring, gaining textural depth and more savory complexity. This style and vintage are not typically designed for very long aging but show significant evolution over 3-5 years.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb chops, charcuterie, mushrooms, roast pork, medium-hard cheeses, Spanish cuisine (jamón ibérico, pulpo a la gallega).

Serving

Serving temperature

15-16°C / 59-61°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Decanting will help the youthful wine open up aromatically and soften the tannic structure.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Vineyard work is manual and follows low-intervention, sustainable principles; minimal use of machinery; biodiversity promoted via cover crops and ecosystem management. Water usage is low due to dry-farming. Packaging is lightweight glass with recyclable natural cork.

Raúl Pérez is internationally recognized for sustainable, minimal-intervention viticulture, focusing on traditional, low-impact farming. While not certified, his practices exceed regional standards, emphasizing biodiversity, minimal chemical use, and energy efficiency—meaning a high sustainability rating. Main caveat: lack of third-party certifications and the footprint from international shipping if consumed outside Spain.