FRAGAS DO LECER, Spain

Its position in the Monterrei valley, close to the Támega River, provides a mixture of soil types well suited to the cultivation of indigenous varieties, Godello and Mencia. Founded in 2005 by the Boo-Rivero family, they brought with them 30 years' experience and a commitment to the varieties of the region. With their 45 acres of vineyards, across 28 sites, a diversity of soil types, from granite based, to sand and slate, the wines from the estate yield great complexity. The Tamaguelos estate has over 10 acres of 30 plus year old Goldello and Mencia vines, with other parcels from the estate amongst the oldest in the region, at 50 plus years. Wines are made by the talented José Manuel Martínez (who is also responsible for winemaking at sister winery Quinta de Couselo in Rias Baixas). Fragas do Lecer practices organic viticulture, with maximum respect for the vineyards and minimum intervention.

Viticulture

The vineyards cover a total of 20 hectares divided into 48 plots all within sight of the impressive castle of Monterrei, including some of the oldest plantings of Godello and Mencía in the area, with vines of over 50 years old. Wines exude the true character of carefully tended, manually harvested vineyards, grown on slopes of decomposed granite. These vines yield a fruit quality that reflects precisely the very particular terroir.

Winemaking

Fraga do Corvo’s white wine is meticulously vinified under strict temperature control, with lees ageing for added richness and mid-palate texture, whilst the red follows a similar treatment, with the addition of ageing in French oak barrels for 6 months, followed by time in bottle to reach optimal maturity for release.