I used to compare Bierzo’s indigenous mencía grape to gamay, but the more I drink, the more I realise that it’s a dark and powerful grape, capable of making deep and serious wines. This estate wine from Merayo is a small window into the power of the mencía grape, designed for enjoying now.
The wine comes from classic bush vines on the slopes and valley floor of Bierzo - with stoney clay soil bringing power that backs the aromatics of the mencía grape and cool nights for acid. It’s intense on both the nose and palate, but sitting firmly in medium-bodied territory. There is a floral note, heaps of plums, cranberries and a touch of spice. It has a long and persistent finish, hinting at the power you will find in some of their top wines.
