Discover the intriguing and delicate 2021 Fedellos Do Couto Bastarda, a distinctive wine crafted from 100% Merenzao grapes, known as Bastardo in Portugal and Trousseau in the Jura region of France. Hailing from the cooler, rainier climes of Galicia, Spain, this wine is celebrated for its unique profile and light-bodied elegance, embodying the spirit of organic winemaking.
Product Details:
- Producer: Fedellos Do Couto
- Region: Galicia, Spain
- Grape Variety: 100% Merenzao
- Vintage: 2021
- ABV: 14%
- Wine Style: Red, light-bodied, organic
- Vinification: The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo whole cluster fermentation with natural yeasts in stainless steel tanks. This is followed by a prolonged maceration period of 40-60 days to enhance the extraction and develop complexity. The wine then matures for 10 months in neutral French oak barrels of 300-500L, preserving the grape’s authentic expression.
- Bottle Size: 750ml
Sensory Description:
The 2021 Bastarda from Fedellos Do Couto presents a spicy and herbaceous bouquet, with an underlying complexity of fennel, curry nuances, and floral subtleties. The palate is marked by silky tannins and a vibrant energy, offering a layered experience of depth and concentration. Light in body but rich in character, it delivers a harmonious blend of fine-grained tannins and a lively, energetic finish that resonates with the cool, austere profile of its vintage.
Awards and Accolades:
- Wine Advocate: 96 points - Praised for its austerity, cool character, and the elegant integration of spicy and floral notes, this vintage is celebrated as potentially the finest Bastarda to date, demonstrating consistency with the highly regarded style of the producer.
Winemaker’s Background:
Fedellos Do Couto is a collaborative winemaking project that was founded in 2011 by Luis Taboada and his team, including viticulturalist Pablo Soldavini and winemakers Curro Bareño and Jesús Olivares. The estate, based in the southern and eastern end of Ribeira Sacra, harnesses the unique terroir of north- and east-facing vineyards to produce wines that reflect a commitment to organic practices and minimal intervention. The winemaking process is characterized by the use of native fermentations and long macerations, aiming to capture the true essence of the region’s indigenous varietals.
Serving Suggestions:
Ideal for serving at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F), the 2021 Bastarda pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its spicy and floral characteristics make it a perfect companion for grilled vegetables, roasted white meats, or earthy mushroom dishes. Its unique profile also complements mildly spiced Asian cuisine, adding a refreshing contrast to the flavors.
The 2021 Fedellos Do Couto Bastarda is a testament to the innovative spirit of its makers and the rich viticultural heritage of Galicia. It invites wine enthusiasts to explore the nuances of a lesser-known grape variety through a wine that is both thought-provoking and eminently enjoyable.
