6+ $27.99 (code: 6saves2)

93 pts Wine Advocate
The very approachable young red 2021 Lalama has notes of wild berries, flowers and herbs that talk about the Mencía grape (it has 15% other varieties) and the dramatic conditions of the Ribeira Sacra vineyards, with a honeyed twist. It's medium-bodied, has fine tannins and is nicely textured, with a bitter twist in the finish. It has 13% alcohol, a pH of 3.7 with 4.8 grams of acidity. This is very drinkable and approachable and always represents a good value and great introduction to the zone and the portfolio. It was bottled in August 2023 after it matured in 300- and 500-liter French oak barrels, 10% of them new, and in 1,500- and 3,000-liter oak foudres for 15 months. 75,625 bottles and 540 magnums produced. Drinking Window 2024 - 2029

92pts Vinous
The blends 85% Mencía, 8% Brancellao and 7% other grapes from Val do Bibei, Ribeira Sacra. Aged up to 14 months in barrels and foudres, it displays a deep purple hue with blue tones. It's expressive, with herbal and red fruit notes, hints of blood orange, pomegranate, violet and a subtle barrel influence. Fine tannins, slight freshness and a touch of wet earth balance its ripeness. The 2021 is well-structured and attractively long.  - By Joaquín Hidalgo on February 2025

Tasting Notes:
The 2021 Lalama from Dominio do Bibei is a compelling expression of Ribeira Sacra's rugged, slate-laden hillsides. Medium ruby in the glass, it opens with lifted aromatics of crushed red berries, dried rose petals, wild herbs, and a touch of smoky earth. On the palate, it’s elegant yet textural—lithe and fresh, with flavors of sour cherry, raspberry, blood orange, and wet stone. Tannins are fine-grained and polished, giving structure without weight. The finish is long, mineral-driven, and quietly powerful.

Vinification:
Grapes are hand-harvested from steep, terraced vineyards and fermented with native yeasts in open vats. Minimal intervention in the cellar, with aging designed to highlight purity and terroir rather than oak.

Terroir:
Sourced from old vines (some over 50 years) planted on decomposed granite, slate, and schist in the cool, mountainous Ribeira Sacra. Altitudes range from 400 to 700 meters, contributing to the wine’s tension and aromatic lift.

Pairing Suggestions:
Perfect with grilled lamb, charcuterie, mushroom dishes, or roasted duck. Its brightness also pairs well with Galician-style octopus or other rustic Spanish fare.

Serving Temperature: 14–16°C (57–61°F). Decant for 30–45 minutes if drinking young.

Drinking Window: Drink now through 2030. Will evolve gracefully in bottle over the next 5–7 years.

Why We Love It:
Lalama 2021 is a beautiful balance of tradition and finesse—savory, aromatic, and rooted in place. A must-try for fans of cool-climate reds like Pinot Noir or Nerello Mascalese, offering both character and value from one of Spain’s most exciting regions.