The 2018 Luna Beberide Paixar is a remarkable red wine hailing from the Bierzo region in Castilla y Leon, Spain. This proprietary blend showcases the best of old-vine Mencía, grown in the slate soils of Dragonte at elevations ranging from 700 to 950 meters. With its captivating aromatics and elegant profile, this wine is a true gem.
Upon pouring, the Paixar reveals a deep, glistening violet color that entices the senses. The highly perfumed bouquet immediately captures attention, offering a symphony of spice-infused red and blue fruits, potpourri, and vanilla. As the wine unfolds, subtle hints of cola, licorice, and smoky minerals emerge, adding complexity and intrigue.
On the palate, the Paixar showcases a deep concentration of flavors, yet remains lively and vibrant. Palate-staining black raspberry, cherry, and boysenberry flavors take center stage, accompanied by delicate notes of candied violet, mocha, and Asian spices. The wine's impressive structure is supported by well-integrated tannins and a lingering finish that showcases the wine's blue fruit note and clinging florality.
The 2018 vintage of Paixar exhibits a level of sophistication and elegance that sets it apart. It represents a departure from previous vintages, showcasing a modern and clean profile. The wine underwent fermentation in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts, followed by maturation in 225- and 500-liter French oak barrels for 14 months. This careful aging process has contributed to the wine's beautifully textured mouthfeel and nuanced depth.
Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the 2018 Paixar an impressive score of 96 points, praising its floral and aromatic expression, as well as its clean and sophisticated profile. Vinous also lauded this wine, awarding it a score of 95 points and highlighting its concentrated yet lively nature and well-knit tannins. John Gilman from View From The Cellar awarded the wine 94 points, noting its outstanding Mencía character, deep complexity, and excellent mineral drive.
With only 12,500 bottles produced, the 2018 Luna Beberide Paixar is a limited-availability wine that deserves attention from collectors and enthusiasts. Its potential for long-term aging in the bottle ensures that this vintage will continue to evolve and develop over time. Bravo to Luna Beberide for crafting a wine of such excellence and refinement.