From: Albaredos, Bierzo, Spain
Varietal: Mencía, Palomino, Doña Blanca, Garnacha Tintorera
Taste: This is a vibrant ruby hue with a slight translucence in the glass. The nose is lifted and aromatic, offering notes of wild raspberry, red currant, and dried rose petals interwoven with a distinct slate-driven minerality. Hints of orange peel, mountain herbs, and crushed stone emerge with air, adding depth. The wine is precise and energetic on the palate, with a lean, tensile structure. Juicy red fruit and floral tones are supported by fine-grained tannins and a streak of high-altitude acidity, leading to a long, savory, mineral-infused finish.
Pairing: The bright acidity and fine tannins make it a perfect pairing to dishes emphasizing herbal, umami, and lightly spiced flavors. Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and garlic bring out the wine’s floral and earthy nuances, while braised rabbit with olives and thyme complements its structure—the wine’s saline minerality pairs well with Galician-style octopus or charred eggplant with tahini and pomegranate.
About: Casa Aurora is the personal project of Germán R. Blanco, a winemaker recognized for his intuitive, terroir-focused approach to viticulture. Situated in the remote mountain village of Albaredos in the westernmost part of Bierzo, near the Ancares range, Casa Aurora pays tribute to traditional winemaking, highlighting vineyard expression, minimal intervention, and historical grape-growing methods.
