The 2021 Raul Perez El Rapolao Lomas de Valtuille La Vizcaina is a Mencia varietal from the Bierzo region of Spain. This red wine, crafted by renowned producer Raul Perez, has a 13.5% alcohol content and is sealed with a cork closure. The 2021 vintage stands out for several reasons, including its unique aging process and exceptional reviews from professional critics.

According to Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, this vintage scores an impressive 95 points. The Advocate’s reviewer, LG, notes that Raul Perez now owns 100% of the grapes used for the El Rapolao. This vintage features a change from previous years, as part of the wine was aged in a 1,500-liter oak foudre. The 2021 vintage is described as a "very clean year" with "notes of toasty sesame seeds," achieved through a short maceration and moderate extraction process. After 45 days of maceration, the wine was placed in barrels, which helped maintain its freshness. The reviewer highlights the wine's "iron touch and some slightly dusty tannins," adding that it possesses a "rustic and earthy touch."

Wine Spectator also highly praises the 2021 El Rapolao, awarding it a score of 93 points. The publication describes the wine as "reminiscent of old-school Cornas," emphasizing its finely knit and enticing profile. The wine features a "fragrant profile of crushed pine and rosemary, leather, singed cedar, iron and stone layered with steeped raspberry and white peach fruit." It is characterized as "fresh and focused," with light, dusty tannins that show on the "creamy, spiced finish." Wine Spectator recommends drinking this wine now through 2030, and notes that only 125 cases were made, with 75 cases imported.

Both reviews highlight the wine's freshness and complex flavor profile, with Robert Parker's Wine Advocate particularly noting the successful adaptation in its production process. Raul Perez's meticulous craftsmanship is evident in this vintage, making it a noteworthy choice for enthusiasts of Mencia and Spanish wines.