2017 Alberto Orte "Escalada Do Bibei" Valdeorras Red Blend

THE EXOTIC HERITAGE REDS OF ALBERTO ORTE

Alberto Orte makes wine across Spain, with projects in Yecla, Rioja, Jerez, and Valdeorras. His common theme is reclaiming history- recreating the wines that existed in Spain before the Marqueses & Condes dominated production. His wines aren't overtly natural, often tasting remarkably fresh and polished but there is an obsession with reviving ancient varieties & terroirs that most business minded winemakers would rather not touch.

Hence, these two miniscule production wines from the sheer cliffs of Valdeorras. We only received six bottles of each of these wines and think they are true pinnacles of deep-cut rediscovered Spain. - WP

From even more remote plots along the Bibei river, the Escalado do Bibei features more Mencia (60% Mencia, 10% Garnarcha Tintorera, and 30% field blend of Merenzao, Brancellao, and Grau Negro). At only 12% alcohol this evokes more of cool climate Syrah's savory leanings with Grenache-like juicy red & black fruit. 18 months in smaller oak barrels smooths out the gamey savory edges. The tannins are fine grained and there is an incredibly complex nose of cherry kirsch, blackberry, mace, clove, grilled meats and dried flowers.