Lado

The Meín vineyard in Leiro, Ourense, boasts historical significance dating back to 1158, acknowledged for its exceptional grape quality by the abbot of San Clodio Monastery. Viña Meín, pivotal in shaping modern Ribeiro, was established in 1988 by Javier Alén, later acquired by Ribera del Duero producer Pago de Carraovejas in July 2019. As part of the Alma Carraovejas group, Viña Meín and Emilio Rojo are under their umbrella. The vineyards, including Emilio Rojo's ancient terraced plot, span the Avia valley with sábrego granite soils. Viña Meín focuses on red and white cuvées, while Emilio Rojo remains a premium single-vineyard wine. Under new ownership, the 2019 harvest introduced separate plot and grape variety processing, emphasizing complexity. Winemaker Laura Moreno aims for elegance in reds and a nuanced white blend. All wines are anticipated to be released with extended bottle aging for heightened complexity upon market entry.

Luis A. Rodriguez Vazquez Viña de Martin Escolma Ribeiro is a premium wine that boasts a rich history and exceptional quality. Produced by Luis A. Rodriguez Vazquez, a renowned winemaker, this wine comes from the Ribeiro appellation in Spain. The vineyard features a unique terroir with granite soils and a cool climate, which gives the wine its distinct character. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes, gentle pressing, and aging in oak barrels. The resulting wine is a complex and elegant blend of indigenous grape varieties, with notes of citrus, stone fruit, and minerality. This wine is perfect for those who appreciate a well-crafted, high-quality wine with a unique sense of place.

Bernardo Estévez transitioned from being an auto mechanic in Vigo to a dedicated winemaker in Arnoia, southern Ribeiro, near the Portuguese border. Since 2009, he's managed 3 hectares of vines across 5 subzones, practicing organic and biodynamic methods. His wine line, "Chánselus," signifies "soil and exposition," emphasizing their influence on wine quality. Ribeiro D.O., an ancient Galician region, suffered setbacks in the 20th century, but Bernardo and others are reviving artisanal Ribeiro winemaking. His "Issué" is a field blend, mainly Lado & Treixadura, showcasing indigenous varieties. Hand-harvested, fermented with wild yeast, and aged in French oak, it reflects a commitment to traditional and modern techniques, resulting in a minimum 14-month bottle aging before release.