2021 Bodegas y Vinedos Raul Perez Ultreia Saint Jacques Tinto Bierzo

“I’ve been following the wines for 20+ years now,” wrote Wine Advocate’s Spanish maven Luis Gutierrez in his eighth article about Spain’s Bierzo region. “There’s never been better and more interesting wines here than now.” 

In the early 2000s, Bierzo surged onto the US wine radar with serious yet deliciously drinkable under-$20 reds that pair with practically everything. As the region has gained renown, those prices have crept up to the high $20s—which is what makes the madcap genius Raul Perez Pereira’s Ultreia Saint Jacques such a bargain.

Grown mainly on vines planted between the 1890s and 1940s, this is a tribute to Bierzo—in Gutierrez’s words, “a beautiful region halfway between Castilla and Galicia that started a new life with the turn of the century and hasn’t stopped since.” Wine Enthusiast has described it as “arguably Spain’s most exciting wine region,” and its wines have leapt onto the pages of leading Michelin-starred wine lists around the world. 

Bounded by mountains, the main vineyards of Bierzo form a south-facing horseshoe shape. The higher elevations and cooler temperatures help give the Mencía grape—which can be as fickle as Pinot Noir—its light, sprightly acidity and intense, earthy, red-fruit palate. While Bierzo is famous for its well-draining slate soils, the layers of clay beneath are just as essential to this wine’s character, absorbing moisture and mitigating the need for irrigation.

Raúl Pérez Pereira is the winemaker whose name has become synonymous with the cutting edge of Spanish viticulture. In 1994, at just 22, he crafted his first vintage for his family’s winery. In 2005, he took a giant leap of faith, leaving the comfort of his family’s establishment to forge his own path. 

• Fruit Intensity
• Oak Intensity
• Body
• Acidity
• Tannin

• ABV 13.10%
• 30 mins
• Now – 2030
• % Mencia% Red Blend
• Serving temperature – 55°
• Cork