Xulia Bande is Ribeiro's Grand Dame. She has been one of the leading voices for the recovery of the historical vineyards sites and Ribeiro's indigenous varieties since she was in her twenties. A path that wasn't at all easy (a winery lost to the fire almost broke he dream once), but as a true fighter, she's crafting some of the most elegant and fine wines this historical region can give. 
 
Under these labels you’ll find a vintage white and a vintage red, both made — as you’d expect — from native castes. The figure of the arrieiro (a muleteer, someone who transported goods using pack animals) depicted on the label is deeply significant in Xulia’s life. Her grandfather was one: he used to carry his wine to the ships in goatskins so as not to injure the mules. In fact, the image that brings the label to life is one of Xulia’s childhood memories of her grandfather: 
 
— I always remember him leaving.
 
This Son de Arrieros is a blend of classic local varieties such as Ferrón, Sousón, Brancellao, and Caíño Longo — almost all from very old vines in the Arnoia Valley. These wines undergo a short pre-fermentative cold maceration of around four to five days, followed by spontaneous fermentation (with native yeasts) in stainless steel. A subtle nose full of forest fruits and sour cherries, with vegetal hints that never veer into greenness, leaning instead towards aniseed, pollen, and menthol. Broad on the palate, with tannins that are still firm, yet supported by beautifully integrated acidity that makes it thoroughly drinkable.
 
Read Miguel's full article on Xulia's work clicking here:
 https://galiciansommelier.substack.com/p/ribeiros-grand-dame