Ribeira Sacra DO Finca Capeliños 2023 Adegas Guímaro

What kind of wine is it

Guímaro Finca Capeliños by Guímaro is a red wine from the Ribeira Sacra, made from Mencía along with Brancellao, Merenzao, Garnacha, Mouratón, Negreda, and Sousón. This blend displays a structured and complex style, with good potential for evolution in the bottle. Fermentation occurs with a mix of whole clusters and destemmed grapes, while aging takes place in used 225-liter French oak barrels. The result is a full-bodied wine with well-integrated tannins and an elegant texture.

Where it comes from

The grapes come from vines over eighty years old located in the subzone of Ribeira Sacra, on deep granite and slate soils at altitudes between 350 and 400 meters. The southern exposure and cool climate favor a slow ripening and preserve acidity; the granite-slate soil and altitude enhance the freshness of the grapes.

How it is made

Manual harvesting takes place in small crates to protect the integrity of the grapes. Fermentation occurs in truncated-cone wooden vats, with 40% destemmed grapes and 60% whole clusters, at about 30°C. Maceration lasts 55 days, followed by natural free-run separation and gentle manual pressing. Aging continues for 12–13 months in seasoned French oak barrels, where malolactic fermentation also takes place, followed by further rest in tank and bottling without fining or filtration.

Tasting notes

It shows an intense garnet color with ruby highlights. On the nose, ripe red fruit aromas emerge, such as cherry and raspberry, with spicy notes of vanilla and cocoa and a balsamic hint. On the palate, it reveals a solid structure, soft yet present tannins, and a balance between acidity and warmth. The finish is long, with lingering fruity notes and a mineral touch that recalls its origin.

Food pairings

Its complexity and smooth tannins make it suitable for roasted red meats, stews, and aged cheeses. It pairs well with Galician-style octopus empanada, which highlights its saline note and structure. Excellent also with oven-roasted pork rack with Mediterranean herbs, enhancing its roundness and flavor persistence.

When to serve it

Guímaro Finca Capeliños expresses its qualities best between three and seven years after bottling, a period when the tannins integrate and more complex aromas develop. It is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 16 and 18°C to appreciate its balance and aromatic depth.