Region | |
---|---|
Subregion | Spain > Castilla y León > Bierzo |
Colour | Red |
Type | Still |
The 2022 La Faraona comes from 0.55 hectares of vine, 98% Mencia with a little white Jerez and Godello, cultivated at 1,000m at the summit of the Corullón hill. It has an almost feral nose, animal fur and antique leather armchair infusing the dark berry fruit. This is fairly backward and needs time to open, yet there is an alluring, almost enigmatic tincture to the aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grip, good density and delineation; the acidity counterbalances the density and muscle. Showing a firm backbone, there’s a little austerity towards the finish with a residual black pepper and clove note. Excellent. Drink 2026-2050.
It's not often that I would call a geographical fault 'marvellous', but the fault that created the exceptional vineyard of La Faraona is just that. At 0.55ha it will always be limited in production, meaning that lovers of this wine will be at the mercy of the weather (and the price). On the nose, it was a little reduced at the tasting. It’s fairly pale in colour, but don’t be deceived; the palate is alight with dense cherry fruit and notes of cranberry and fennel. The finish is fresh, with definite mineral undertones. Profound. I’d like to come back to this when it has had more time in bottle. Gran Viña Classificada. 2,065 bottles produced. Drink 2023- 2040