This unfined, unfiltered offering, from steep vineyards (60-100-years old) composed primarily of schist, is 100% Mencia, a varietal indigenous to Bierzo. It is fashioned by the brilliant Spanish winemaker, Alvaro Palacios, from tiny yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare. According to Alvaro Palacios, the estate’s finest (as well as steepest) vineyard is Corullon. The brilliant 2003 Corullon may be the finest wine of the appellation. Its dense purple color is accompanied by lovely aromas of precise blueberries, cassis, crushed rocks, and acacia flowers. Fuller-bodied and richer, with more structure and tannin, this classic Spanish red will benefit from another 1-2 years of bottle age; it should drink well for a decade. Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484