Rafael Palacios : Sorte Antigua 2023

Characteristics and tasting notes of the Sorte Antigua 2023 by Rafael Palacios

Tasting

The tasting reveals a beautiful texture on the palate, with remarkable depth and great complexity. The whole retains a definite elegance, avoiding any character that could appear excessively rustic.

The authentic expression of terroir by Rafael Palacios in Valdeorras

The estate
Founded in 2004 by Rafael Palacios, the current owner and sole director, this estate lies in the Val do Bibei sub-region of Galicia. Patiently built up parcel by parcel, the vineyard now extends over 24.5 hectares. Rafael Palacios's tireless work marks the renaissance of the indigenous Godello grape. Farmed organically and partially biodynamically, the estate stands out for its obsessive quest for authenticity and its absolute respect for terroir. This meticulous approach has elevated the property to the rank of a global benchmark for great Spanish white wines.

The vineyard
This wine comes from the oldest parcel of the estate, located within the Valdeorras appellation. The management of these historic vines is aimed above all at preserving the authentic expression of the site and the typicity of its soil.

The vintage
The year began with a mild and rainy winter. Budburst occurred at an intermediate pace, spreading from mid-April to early May depending on the parcels. Spring proved mild with moderate rainfall, followed by a summer that was also mild but rather dry, with very little rain. Fortunately, moderate rainfall during the second week of September allowed ripening to be completed ideally, particularly phenolic ripeness. Overall, this mild and slightly dry vintage, rescued by the late rains, achieved excellent quality.

Winemaking and aging
For the Sorte Antigua 2023 cuvée, which stands as the most traditional wine of the estate, fermentation takes place in contact with the skins. This method of production gives the wine a singular texture, depth and a beautiful complexity. The aim of this vinification is to faithfully preserve the character of the site and the soil, while carefully avoiding too rustic a profile.

Grape variety
100% Godello.