A benchmark Mencía from Raúl Pérez, one of Spain’s most influential and character-driven winemakers. Based in the Bierzo region of north-west Spain (Castilla y León), Pérez works with old-vine parcels around Valtuille de Abajo, where a mix of clay-limestone and slate soils, plus Atlantic influence, give the wines their signature lift and freshness. “Ultreia” is his core range, named after a traditional Camino de Santiago greeting meaning “keep going,” and Saint Jacques is the most accessible and widely produced cuvée.
Made primarily from Mencía, with small amounts of Alicante Bouschet, Trousseau,
Godello, Palomino and Doña Blanca from old bush vines, the majority of which are over 100 years old. It is fermented with minimal intervention—often with whole clusters—and aged in old oak and large vats to preserve purity of fruit and site expression.
Bright, juicy and lifted, with aromas of red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry, layered with subtle floral notes, spice and a hint of graphite. The palate is supple and energetic, showing crunchy red berry fruit, plum and a touch of savoury herb. Fine tannins and fresh, mouth-watering acidity keep everything taut and drinkable, leading to a long, lightly mineral, peppery finish. A pure expression of modern Bierzo: vibrant, transparent and very drinkable.
