ENVINATE

Envínate’s Lousas Viñas de Aldea is a captivating red wine from Spain’s Ribeira Sacra, a rugged, slate-rich region in Galicia. The term “Lousas” refers to the slate soils that define the area, while “Viñas de Aldea” translates to “village vines,” indicating a blend of grapes from multiple small plots across subzones like Amandi, Ribeiras do Sil, and Val do Bibei. These vineyards, situated between 400 and 600 meters in elevation, are planted with vines aged between 20 and 60 years .  

The wine is predominantly composed of Mencía (approximately 80–90%), complemented by indigenous varieties such as Merenzao, Brancellao, Caíño, Sousón, Mouratón, Alicante Bouschet, and even small amounts of white grapes like Godello and Palomino . Fermentation is carried out using 40% to 100% whole clusters, depending on the plot, and the grapes are foot-stomped in open vats. The wine is then aged for about 11 months in neutral oak barrels on its lees, without racking or added sulfur . 

The resulting wine is fresh and savory, with lifted aromatics, red fruit flavors, and a distinct minerality that reflects its slate-rich terroir . It serves as an excellent introduction to both the Ribeira Sacra region and Envínate’s winemaking style.