2019 Algueira Dolio Ribeira Sacra

the story of Algueira in Ribeira Sacra

Bodega Algueira is one of the pioneers of the Spanish Ribeira Sacra region. The Algueira family works from the steep terraces along the Sil River, where they use native grape varieties to create wines that remain true to their origins. Today, the second generation, Fabio and his father Fernando, are at the helm. Together with winemakers Telmo Rodríguez and Pablo Eguzkiza, the portfolio is being renewed and the focus shifted to blends of native grapes that together form a layered and characterful whole. The estate has 21 hectares of its own vineyards and selects plots with north- and west-facing exposures to maintain freshness and balance in warmer years.

grapes and terroir

The 2019 Dolio is blended with mencía, brancellao, sousón, caíño, and garnacha tintorera. Brancellao plays a key role this year, bringing tension and spice. Mencía adds refined fruit and elegance, while sousón and garnacha tintorera provide color, intensity, and structure. The choice of cooler plots underscores the vision to preserve freshness and precision in a region known for its steep, mineral-rich soils.

the 2019 harvest

The 2019 vintage in Ribeira Sacra was warm and dry, resulting in concentrated grapes. Careful selection and harvesting at the optimal time allowed Algueira to produce a wine with ripe fruit, but without excess. The combination of traditional methods and modern precision makes the Dolio 2019 a wine with tension and elegance, suitable for both young drinking and further aging.

vinification and maturation

The grapes were partially fermented in whole bunches, trampled by foot in a tronconical oak barrel, supplemented with partially destemmed grapes. Fermentation was carried out with indigenous yeasts. This was followed by 24 months of maturation in a combination of 225-liter barriques and 2,000-liter foudres. Despite this long aging, the influence of the wood is barely noticeable; the wine remains refined, floral, and pure, with pure fruit and a precise structure. A total of only 6,665 bottles were produced, bottled in May 2023.

color, smell and taste

The 2019 Dolio displays a deep ruby red color. The nose opens with floral aromas, red fruit, spices, and a mineral undertone. On the palate, it presents itself balanced and elegant, with fine-grained tannins, subtle grip, and a harmonious length. The structure is firm but not heavy, supported by a lively freshness and a moderate alcohol content of 14%. This gives the wine refinement and precision, as also emphasized by The Wine Advocate.

reviews and potential

The 2019 Dolio was awarded 95 points by Luis Gutiérrez (The Wine Advocate) and described as the best wine from Algueira in recent years. He praised its balance, elegance, and purity, as well as its fine tannins and subtle aromatic intensity. This wine has been appealing since 2024, but can continue to develop until at least 2030. Its limited production and growing reputation make the 2019 Dolio a sought-after bottle for enthusiasts and collectors.

Would you like to order Algueira wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

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wine and food pairings

• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary – the spiciness complements the floral and mineral notes of the wine perfectly.
• Beef stew with mushrooms – the depth and structure of the Dolio enhance the earthy and savory flavors.
• Partridge with lentils and root vegetables – the refined tannins combine beautifully with game dishes and the subtle sweetness of root vegetables.
• Grilled peppers stuffed with rice and herbs – the freshness and spiciness of the wine enhance the flavors of vegetable dishes.
• Galician octopus with paprika and olive oil – the saltiness and spiciness find a fascinating harmony with the juicy texture of the Dolio.
• Maturing sheep's cheese – the nutty and slightly salty notes prolong the aftertaste and emphasise the minerality.