Maria José Yravedra is a visionary in Ribeira Sacra, a region renowned for its challenging terroir and heroic viticulture—where winemakers labor at dizzying heights on steep, terraced slopes. This arduous terrain, requiring all work to be done by hand, is part of what makes Ribeira Sacra one of the most demanding wine regions in the world. Maria’s 2021 Vela`uveyra, meaning “to gaze at the vineyards” in Galego, showcases the local varieties with a focus on Mencía, complemented by Garnacha and Negreda, all cultivated on granitic soils. This medium-bodied red bursts with spicy dark fruit, white pepper, and brambly flavors, all harmonized by bright acidity and a mineral-driven, complex finish. A versatile, chillable wine that is perfect for any occasion.
92 Miranda Franco
Rondel do Sil, Ribeira Sacra (Galicia, Spain) Mencía “Vel’uveyra” 2021 ($22, Savio Soares Selection)
By Miranda Franco
