Spain - Castilla y Léon - Bierzo DO
3 important questions on Spain - Castilla y Léon - Bierzo DO
Where is Bierzo located, and what can you say about its climate?
- Northwest of CyL; similar to Galician wine regions, further inland; warmer.
- On slate slopes (1990s recognised by Palacio and Perez)
- On three sides hills; towards the west opening to maritime influences
Where are the best vineyards and wines of Bierzo?
- On the hillside slopes 500-850m; altitude is cooling
- Large diurnal range: slow sugar, retains acidity while flavour and tannins develop.
- Good drainage
- Poor slate soil; limits vigour; low yields, expensive production cost
- Bush vines are common; old vines - 80% over 60 years old.
- Often matured in oak for spicy character
What is the main grape variety for DO Bierzo, what can contribute in its blend?
- Mencia; min 70% in a blend, most are 100%
- 75% of all plantings
- Quickly develops sugar; can therefore lose acidity quickly - high alcohol
- styles:
- medium to high acidity
- light to full bodied with higher tannins
- Blends with Alicante Bouschet (aka Baga/Aragones, 2% planted) for 'ink' - teinturier, deep colour
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