The Still & The VineSchool of Wine & Spirits
Descendientes de J. Palacios Pétalos Bierzo 2022
Red WineIssue 38

Descendientes de J. Palacios Pétalos Bierzo 2022

Descendientes de J. Palacios

NASBierzo, Spain
Alvaro Palacios and his nephew Ricardo brought global attention to Bierzo's old-vine Mencía, and Pétalos remains their most accessible expression of that mission. The 2022 vintage is vibrant and perfumed, demonstrating why this grape — when farmed with conviction — can rival Burgundy for sheer aromatic beauty at a fraction of the cost.

Kit Aromas

Tasting Notes

Nose

Intense aromas of fresh cherry and crushed violets, with a thread of minerality and a hint of green herbs. A subtle marzipan note adds intrigue beneath the fruit.

Palate

Medium-bodied and immediately expressive, with juicy red berry fruit, a floral lift of rose, and fine-grained tannins. A gentle mintiness emerges midpalate alongside a clean, stony minerality.

Finish

Medium length, with cherry and violet persistence and a refreshing, slightly earthy close.

Specifications
Varietal
Mencía
Blend
Predominantly Mencía with small amounts of other local varieties
Vineyards
Old-vine parcels across the Bierzo DO, many at elevation on slate soils
Alcohol
13.5%
Organic / Biodynamic
No
Serve & Pair

Food Pairing

Roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic potatoes

The Story

Alvaro Palacios, the legendary Priorat pioneer, partnered with his nephew Ricardo Pérez to rescue ancient Mencía vineyards in the remote Bierzo region of northwest Spain.

Train These Aromas
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