Region: Monterrei DO, Galicia, Spain

Varietal: 100% Mencia

Producer: Fraga do Corvo is part of the Grandes Pagos Gallegos family of wineries focused on expressing Galicia’s unique terroirs through native varieties and traditional practices. Located in the Monterrei DO in southwestern Galicia near the Portuguese border, the project highlights old hillside vineyards planted primarily to Mencía, a grape long revered in northwest Spain for its ability to combine vibrant fruit with energy and regional identity. Though Monterrei is less famous than nearby Rías Baixas or Bierzo, Fraga do Corvo has helped elevate this corner of Galicia by showcasing what thoughtful viticulture and attention to site can achieve here.

Vineyard & Winemaking: The 2021 Mencía is made from grapes grown on own-estate vineyards with more than 20 years of age, planted on soils of granite and slate that drain well and promote concentrated fruit. Fruit is hand harvested and sorted in the vineyard before a cold maceration of about two weeks to extract aromatic lift and gentle structure. After destemming, fermentation begins in small French oak barrels, followed by malolactic conversion and a period of static aging — part in stainless steel and part in fine-grain French oak — for roughly seven months, then a short resting period in bottle before release.

Tasting Notes: The 2021 Fraga do Corvo Mencía pours a bright, medium-ruby hue with purplish rim. Aromas of wild blackberry, raspberry, and red plum are woven with floral notes of violet and lavender, alongside subtle spice and graphite nuances. On the palate the wine is medium-bodied and fresh, with juicy dark fruit balanced by lively acidity and polished, fine-grained tannins. Undertones of white pepper, herb, and gentle earthiness carry through to a clean, persistent finish that feels both expressive and approachable.