Ribeira Sacra DO 2017 Dominio do Bibei

What kind of wine is it

Ribeira Sacra Dominio do Bibei is a red wine made from a blend of Brancellao and Mouraton from Galicia. Its style is structured and complex, with clear fruit, spices, and a well-defined mineral component. The winemaking process includes a pre-fermentation maceration and fermentation in open French oak barriques, followed by malolactic fermentation and aging in wood without filtration.

Where it comes from

The grapes are sourced from vineyards in Ribeira Sacra in Galicia, located between 250 and 550 meters above sea level. Soils of schist and weathered slate contribute to a distinctive mineral signature and a sense of freshness on the palate. The vines, aged between 10 and 60 years, produce more focused and defined fruit, shaped by the altitude and rocky substrate.

How it is produced

The harvest is manual and takes place in the first week of October. In the cellar, a three-day pre-fermentation maceration is followed by fermentation in open barriques of French oak. Malolactic fermentation takes place in smaller barriques; aging continues for 15 months in used barriques and is completed by a further six months in large barrels, with no filtration before bottling.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows an intense ruby red color. The nose offers a complex bouquet of red and dark berries, floral notes, spices, and a hint of leather. On the palate, red and dark fruit and spicy nuances are supported by a lively minerality that gives freshness and depth, with a fine aromatic persistence.

Best pairings

At the table, it pairs well with dishes of game, thanks to its well-integrated aromatic intensity and spice. It also matches easily with red meats and grilled preparations, where its structure and minerality complement the succulence and toasted notes of the cooking process without losing the fruit’s clarity.

When to serve it

This is a red wine suited for moments when a more complex and defined profile is desired, especially during meals centered on meats and game. The aging in used barriques, its time in large barrels, and absence of filtration highlight the substance and aromatic detail, inviting you to spend time with each glass. The freshness and mineral character make it enjoyable throughout the main course.