Castro Ventosa 'Rabbit' Mencia, Bierzo, Spain

Old vines give 2024 Castro Ventosa Mencia its depth, while a youthful, fruit-led approach keeps the wine lively and approachable. Known as the Rabbit Label bottling, this Bierzo red combines Mencía with Alicante Bouschet and a small contribution from white grapes. Native-yeast fermentation and three months in large neutral oak foudres preserve its fresh cherry and raspberry character, with savory detail adding interest beyond the first sip.

Product Details:

• Alcohol by Volume: 13.2%.
• pH: 3.75.
• Varietal Composition: 85% Mencía, 8% Alicante Bouschet, and 7% white grapes.
• Vineyard Sources: Seventeen vineyard areas around Valtuille and adjoining slopes toward Cacabelos and Villafranca del Bierzo.
• Average Vine Age: Approximately 85 years.
• Soils: A mixture of clay, stony clay, sandy soils and soils rich in organic matter.
• Harvest: Hand-harvested.
• Fruit Preparation: Destemmed.
• Fermentation: Co-fermented with indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks.
• Maturation: Three months in 5,000-liter neutral oak foudres.
• Owners: The Pérez family.
• Winemakers: Raúl Pérez and César Márquez.

Sensory Description:

Fresh black cherry and ripe raspberry lead the aromatic profile, joined by violet and subtle suggestions of cured black olive and black tea. The palate is juicy and finely structured, carrying its fruit with freshness rather than heaviness. Fine tannins provide a gentle framework, while the savory notes add contrast beneath the berries. Floral impressions linger through the finish, reinforcing the wine’s youthful, expressive character.

Awards & Accolades:

• The Wine Advocate, 92+ Points: Luis Gutiérrez, July 2025, reviewing the 2024 El Castro de Valtuille Mencía Joven. “The wine is agile and fine-boned with very fine tannins.”
• Vinous, 92 Points: Joaquín Hidalgo, reviewing the 2024 El Castro de Valtuille. “It offers tension and a fine, transparent texture, with violet lingering on the finish.”

Winemakers' Background:

Castro Ventosa is the Pérez family’s estate in Valtuille de Abajo, where its ancestors were documented growing grapes in 1752. The winery takes its name from the ancient hilltop fortification overlooking the village. Raúl Pérez and his nephew César Márquez bring complementary experience to the cellar, working together at the estate since 2018. The Rabbit Label introduces the family’s old-vine holdings through an accessible, fruit-focused wine, using brief maturation in large neutral vessels to retain aromatic detail and freshness.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve slightly cool at approximately 55–60°F (13–16°C) in a medium-sized red wine glass. If the first pour seems aromatically closed, allow a little air before serving. Pair with jamón serrano, sheep’s-milk cheese, mushroom risotto or grilled pork. Carne asada tacos and herb-roasted chicken also suit its combination of juicy fruit and savory detail. For a simple shared plate, offer Manchego, olives, roasted peppers and crusty bread.