The wines of Dominio do Bibei, Ribeira Sacra, Spain

The wines of Dominio do Bibei, Ribeira Sacra, Spain
Great wines from a spectacular region in northwest Spain

Ribeira Sacra is one of the appellations in Galicia, northwest Spain, and it's known for its steeply sloped, terraced vineyards that have a resemblance to those in the Douro or Priorato. Dominio do Bibei is an ambitious project, looking to express the terroir of the region through a natural winemaking approach. Vinification is in a mix of different sized wood and cement (including some Nomblot eggs) and natural yeasts are used. Reds are made from Mencía, Garnacha, Brancellao and Mouraton (the latter two being local varieties unique to the region) and whites come from Godello plus a bit of Doña Blanca and Albariño.

THE WINES

Dominio do Bibei Lapola 2010 Ribeira Sacra, Spain
70% Godello, 20% Albariño, 10% Doña Blanca. This white was aged in large oak, and its rounded and textured with smooth pear, peach and citrus fruit. Some nuttiness in the background. 90/100

Dominio do Bibei Lapena 2009 Ribeira Sacra, Spain
100% Godello. Fresh, citrussy and lively with nice acidity and a rounded texture. Pure pear fruit is the key theme. 90/100

Dominio do Bibei Lalama 2008 Ribeira Sacra, Spain
This red is made from Mencia, Brancellao and Mouraton. Fresh, vivid sappy black cherry and plum fruit with a smooth texture and attractive minerality. Quite fine and fresh. 92/100

Dominio do Bibei Lacima 2007 Ribeira Sacra, Spain
This is a varietal Mencia from the highest vineyards (700-800 m) and old vines (50-100 years). Vivid, fresh, pure black cherry fruit. Sweet textured and smooth, very rounded in the mouth. Stylish and pure with potential for development. 93/100

Dominio do Bibei 'B' 2008 Ribeira Sacra, Spain
A varietal Brancellao, Fine, elegant and spicy with lovely fine texture. Distinctive mineral character here along with the fresh, light berry fruits. Really fine. 94/100

Dominio do Bibei 'MT' 2008 Ribeira Sacra, Spain
A varietal Mouraton. Ripe, sweet black cherry nose. Fine black cherry and plum notes on the palate. Distinctive and grippy with lovely fruit purity and some tarry notes on the finish. 94/100