2021 Antoine Graillot & Raúl Pérez "Encinas" Tinto, Bierzo, Spain
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ABOUT THE WINE
Encinas is a collaborative project between Antoine Graillot, of the Northern Rhône’s revered Graillot family, and Raúl Pérez, the visionary winemaker of Bierzo. Sourced from old-vine Mencía planted on clay and decomposed slate soils in the high-altitude hillsides around Ponferrada, the wine reflects both place and philosophy—fermented whole-cluster with native yeasts in large wooden vats and aged in used French oak foudres.
The 2021 vintage delivers freshness and aromatic clarity: layers of redcurrant, cranberry, rose petal, and black tea unfold with air, supported by a gentle structure and a vibrant, mineral-driven core. There’s a restrained power here, balancing the rustic charm of Bierzo with polished finesse. Versatile at the table, it pairs beautifully with roast poultry, chargrilled vegetables, or mushroom dishes, and benefits from a light chill.
ABOUT THE PRODUCERS
This cross-cultural collaboration unites two winemaking icons: Antoine Graillot, known for his expressive Syrahs from Crozes-Hermitage, and Raúl Pérez, widely considered one of Spain’s most innovative vintners. The project began in 2015, born from a shared respect for old vines, minimal intervention, and terroir expression.
Raúl Pérez brings unparalleled local knowledge of Bierzo’s ancient vineyards and diverse soils, while Antoine contributes a Rhône-influenced approach to structure and vinification. Together, they produce Encinas—a singular wine that bridges regions and philosophies. Farming is organic, and winemaking is hands-off, with long macerations and aging in large neutral wood to preserve purity. The result is a wine of transparency and tension—authentically Bierzo, but with a cosmopolitan edge.