2023 Descendientes de Jose Palacios Petalos del Bierzo

Pétalos del Bierzo is the accessible style of Descendientes de J. Palacios, yet with clear origin and depth. This wine demonstrates how Mencía translates in Bierzo into a combination of freshness, juicy fruit, and subtle minerality. The blend of old vines and various local grape varieties provides complexity, while the vinification remains focused on purity and balance. The result is a lively, characterful wine that is both immediately appealing and possesses sufficient structure.

Origin and terroir

Sourced from Bierzo in Castilla y León, primarily from vineyards around Corullón and Villafranca del Bierzo. The vineyards are situated on steep slopes between 450 and 1,100 meters in altitude and are cultivated organically and biodynamically. The soils vary from slate with quartz and sandstone to clay with pebbles, resulting in a combination of minerality, freshness, and structure. The vines are old, often between 40 and 90 years old, which contributes to concentration and complexity.

Grapes and blend

The wine consists primarily of Mencía (approximately 91-92%), supplemented with small quantities of local grapes such as Alicante Bouschet, Gran Negro, Negreda, and various white varieties such as Valenciana and Godello. This mixed planting, sourced from old vineyards, provides additional layering and nuance.

Vinification

After manual harvesting, the grapes are partially destemmed and lightly crushed. Fermentation takes place spontaneously in a combination of stainless steel and wooden vats. Subsequently, the wine ages for approximately 10 months in French oak barrels. The wine is lightly clarified and bottled unfiltered, which contributes to the preservation of character and structure.

Style and taste profile

In the glass, the wine displays a deep ruby red color. The aroma opens with violets and lavender, followed by ripe black and red fruit such as black cherries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries. On the palate, the wine is full and round, with a fresh undertone and a beautiful balance between fruit and structure. Subtle spicy and slightly earthy notes add extra depth, while the tannins are refined and well-integrated. The finish is long, with ripe fruit and a light touch of vanilla from the oak aging.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs well with grilled chicken with roasted bell peppers and thyme, roasted beetroot with goat cheese and walnuts, or mushroom risotto with herbs and Parmesan. It is also suitable for slow-cooked veal cheek, tuna steak with lentils, or roasted quail with cherries and mushrooms. The combination of freshness, fruit, and soft structure makes the wine versatile.

Fun fact

Pétalos means 'petals' and refers to the refined and aromatic character of the wine. Mencía is often described as the 'Pinot Noir of Spain' due to its elegant style and fresh structure. The wine has aged for 10 months in French oak, where the oak influence remains subtle and the fruit takes center stage. Descendientes de José Palacios works entirely organically and biodynamically, with certification since the 2020 vintage.