Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo

Ultreia is the word pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago called out to each other in greeting, meaning “we go further,” and it suits this wine perfectly. A Mencía-dominant field blend from ancient vines planted between the 1890s and 1940s around Valtuille, fermented with 50-60% whole clusters in old oak vats with a two-month maceration before ageing in neutral barrels. Pomegranate, dark cherry, cassis and crushed herbs, with a smoky mineral depth and fine active tannins that keep it moving. Fantastic with slow-roasted Iberico pork or a bowl of Korean kimchi jjigae.