Grupo Álvaro Palacios La Faraona Corullón

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Grupo Álvaro Palacios La Faraona Corullón is a sublime illustration of the Mencía grape’s potential, embodying an intricate symphony of flavors that transport the taster to the heart of Bierzo. The opening bouquet is dominated by rich, dark fruits such as black cherry and plum, whose sweetness is balanced by the wine’s vibrant acidity. These bold fruit flavors intertwine with haunting floral notes, particularly violet, that speak to the high-quality of Mencía and suggest a depth rarely found in many other wines. Beneath these layers lie mineral undertones, reminiscent of wet slate and characteristic of high-altitude vineyards, which add a stone-like crispness and refresh the palate.

Pairings & Suggestions

Experience the harmonic pairing potential of Grupo Álvaro Palacios La Faraona Corullón with a variety of culinary delights:

• Grilled Lamb: The rich, gamey flavors of lamb harmonize beautifully with the wine’s dark fruit notes.
• Roasted Game: Venison or other robust game meats accentuate the wine’s inherent spiciness and depth.
• Mushroom Risotto: Rich, earthy mushrooms complement the wine’s mineral undertones, creating a luxurious pairing.
• Aged Cheeses: Manchego or Parmigiano enhance and highlight the wine’s complex bouquet.

  The Vineyard that Tells Time

Set amid the undulating landscape of Bierzo, La Faraona’s vineyard is a living testament to time and tradition. Acquired in 2001, this 0.55 hectare gem within the Corullón plot boasts vines that have seen over a century’s worth of seasons. These ancient Mencía vines, deeply rooted in the slate-rich soil, offer unparalleled complexity and depth, as they extract the very essence of the terroir. The high-altitude location lends to a unique microclimate that is ideal for viticulture, marrying the warmth of the sun with the coolness of the mountain air. This microclimate allows the grapes to develop rich, concentrated flavors while maintaining a lively acidity. It is this perfect balance that Álvaro Palacios strives to bottle, creating a wine that not only embodies the essence of its environment but also pays homage to the history etched into the landscape. Each sip of La Faraona is a journey through time, an exploration of the past through the lens of one of Spain’s most forward-thinking winemakers.

Storage Instructions

Store Grupo Álvaro Palacios La Faraona Corullón at a stable temperature between 55-65°F (13-18°C), in a dark environment with 60-70% humidity. Lay bottles horizontally to keep corks moist.