Wines Bierzo Raul Perez - La Vizcaína La Vitoriana - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Raúl Pérez’s La Vizcaína La Vitoriana 2022 is a striking red from the Bierzo DO in north-western Spain. This wine is predominantly crafted from the Mencía grape, celebrated for its ability to express both the minerality of its terrain and a fine aromatic complexity. The 2022 vintage benefitted from a temperate growing season, allowing the grapes to develop vibrant acidity without sacrificing ripeness. The La Vitoriana parcel sits on steep hillside slopes with a mixture of clay and slate soils, which encourages deep root penetration and imparts a distinct mineral backbone to the wine. Raúl Pérez is known for his minimal intervention winemaking philosophy. After harvesting the Mencía grapes by hand, he often employs partial whole-bunch fermentation and matures the wine in used oak barrels. This careful touch ensures the preservation of delicate florals, red fruit, and an evocative earthy profile.

Bierzo, once a lesser-known corner of Spain, has vaulted into the limelight thanks to winemakers like Pérez. The region is defined by its Atlantic-influenced continental climate, with moderate rainfall, warm summers, and cool nights that slow grape maturation, preserving freshness and aromatic lift. The soils in Bierzo are a tapestry of slate, quartz, and clay, ideal for the Mencía grape and contributing subtle mineral nuances. The area’s viticultural history stretches back to Roman times, but today, its revival is driven by a new generation of winemakers who blend tradition with innovation.

This vibrant and medium-bodied red works beautifully with regional dishes such as roast lamb with rosemary or botillo, a local cured pork specialty. Its lively acidity and fine tannins make it an excellent partner for grilled vegetables, mushroom risotto, or even seared tuna. For a classic Spanish pairing, try chorizo or empanadas stuffed with spicy meat.

Serve the wine at a cool 15–16°C to showcase its expressive aromatics and supple texture. Decanting for 30 minutes is advisable to allow the wine’s subtle complexities to unfurl. Enjoy over the next few years to savour its youthful energy and evolving depth.