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93 pts Vinous
The 2020 Lacima blends 73% Mencía with 27% other reds from seven sites across Bibei, Mendoia, and Val de Rodrigo. Made from 19 wines aged in barrels and foudres, it represents the essence of Val do Bibei. Compact and ripe, its tannins and oak integrate seamlessly. Slightly more mature than the others, it offers clear flavors, a smooth texture, and some oak grip. The 2020 is a Ribeira Sacra red with depth and length. - By Joaquín Hidalgo on February 2025. Drinking Window 2025 - 2038

Terroir & Vineyards
Dominio do Bibei is located in the remote, rugged hills of Ribeira Sacra in northwestern Spain, an area defined by its steep, terraced vineyards carved into the slate and granite slopes above the Bibei River. LaCima is sourced primarily from old-vine Mencía—many over 50 years of age—planted at elevations between 400 and 650 meters. The high altitude, extreme diurnal shifts, and poor, rocky soils all contribute to the wine’s freshness, aromatic lift, and mineral complexity. The region’s Atlantic-influenced climate brings cool nights and a long growing season, allowing the grapes to achieve ripeness while preserving acidity.

Vinification
Dominio do Bibei is known for a minimalist, detail-focused approach in both vineyard and cellar. The 2020 LaCima is harvested by hand in small crates to preserve fruit integrity. Fermentation takes place with native yeasts in a combination of concrete tanks and large oak vats, often with a portion of whole clusters to add aromatic complexity and structure. Macerations are gentle and extended, avoiding excessive extraction. The wine is then aged for around 14–16 months in a mix of large used French oak barrels, foudres, and concrete eggs, followed by several months of bottle aging before release. This low-intervention approach allows the vineyard character to take center stage.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, LaCima 2020 shows a vivid, translucent ruby hue. The nose is highly aromatic, offering layers of wild red berries, black cherry, and pomegranate, intertwined with floral notes of violets and lavender, subtle Mediterranean herbs, and a whisper of black pepper. Beneath the fruit, a distinct mineral streak—graphite, slate, and wet stone—reflects the steep Ribeira Sacra terroir.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, with silky tannins and bright acidity framing the pure red fruit. The texture is supple yet energetic, with savory herbal undertones and a gentle earthy depth. The finish is long, fresh, and slightly saline, encouraging another sip.

Serving & Pairing
Best enjoyed slightly chilled (around 14–15°C) to emphasize freshness. Pair with roasted poultry, grilled pork tenderloin, charcuterie, or mushroom-based dishes. This is also a versatile wine for lighter game or earthy vegetarian fare. While delicious now, LaCima 2020 will gain further complexity over the next 5–7 years.

A benchmark expression of modern Ribeira Sacra—precise, elegant, and deeply connected to its dramatic

• 70% Mencía, 14% Brancellao, 13% Mouratón & 3% Sousón
• Older vines 60 to 110 years old
• Fermented with natural yeasts in open-top 500L casks
• Aged 19 months in used barrique followed by 6 months in foudre