Raúl Pérez is one of the most influential figures in modern Spanish wine, and Ultreia Saint-Jacques is the bottle that introduced many drinkers to both his philosophy and the potential of Bierzo. Long before the region became fashionable, Pérez was farming old vines, questioning convention, and showing that Mencía could express place with clarity, energy, and depth. This wine helped change how people understood northwest Spain.
Bierzo: Where Mountains, History, and Mencía Meet
Bierzo sits in northwest Spain at the edge of Castilla y León, shaped by both Atlantic and continental influences. Vineyards climb steep hillsides at higher elevations, often planted on slate, clay, and quartz soils. Many of these vines are 60 to 100 years old, dry-farmed and head-trained, producing naturally low yields and wines with a strong mineral signature.
The region also lies along the Camino de Santiago, the historic pilgrimage route that runs across northern Spain. Saint James, or Santiago, remains a powerful cultural presence here. The name Ultreia comes from a medieval pilgrim’s greeting meaning “onward,” a reference to both Bierzo’s history and Raúl Pérez’s forward-looking approach.
Farming and Winemaking Philosophy
Raúl Pérez farms organically and works with minimal intervention in the cellar. Fermentations rely on native yeasts, and Saint-Jacques includes partial whole clusters to add lift, spice, and structure. Aging takes place in neutral French oak, not to flavor the wine, but to allow it to settle while preserving freshness and site expression.
Each vintage is treated as its own story rather than forced into a rigid style. The goal is transparency and energy, not polish.
Style and Why It Matters
Ultreia Saint-Jacques is often compared to Cru Beaujolais or cooler-climate Pinot Noir, but it remains unmistakably Mencía. The wine is juicy, aromatic, and mineral-driven, with fine tannins and bright acidity that make it both expressive and easy to drink.
This bottle helped redefine what Spanish red wine could be and showed that Bierzo belongs among Europe’s great terroir-driven regions.
Why We Carry It
We carry Ultreia Saint-Jacques because it delivers real place, real farming, and real character at a level that still feels approachable. It is a benchmark wine that manages to be educational without being intimidating, and endlessly drinkable without being simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Raúl Pérez?
Raúl Pérez is a Spanish winemaker based in Bierzo, widely regarded as one of the country’s most influential and innovative voices, known for minimal intervention and deep respect for terroir.
What grape is used in Ultreia Saint-Jacques?
The wine is primarily Mencía, with small amounts of Bastardo and Garnacha Tintorera from mixed plantings.
What does Mencía taste like?
Mencía typically shows red berries, florals, herbs, and mineral notes, with fresh acidity and moderate tannins.
Is this wine heavy or light?
It is medium-bodied, fresh, and lifted rather than heavy or extracted.
Is the wine oaked?
Yes, but only in neutral French oak, which supports texture without adding noticeable oak flavor.
Should I chill this wine?
A slight chill works beautifully and highlights the wine’s freshness.
What foods pair well with it?
Roast chicken, grilled mushrooms, pork, lentils, and Spanish tapas all pair naturally.
Can this wine age?
Yes, it can age for several years, but it is also delicious right now thanks to its balance and energy.
