General Description: Mencía is a red grape variety predominantly found in the northwestern regions of Spain, particularly in Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, and Valdeorras. It is also grown in the neighboring regions of Portugal, known there as Jaen. Mencía is known for producing aromatic, medium-bodied wines with a good balance of acidity and tannins. The wines typically exhibit a bright, fresh profile with floral, red fruit, and mineral notes, and they can range from light and fruity to more structured and complex, particularly when sourced from older vines.
Primary Flavours:
- Red cherry
- Blackberry
- Pomegranate
- Violet
- Licorice
- Mineral undertones
Taste Profile:
- Sweet-Dry: Dry
- Body: Medium body
- Tannins: Medium
- Acidity: High
- ABV range: Typically between 12% to 13.5%
Handling: Mencía wines are best enjoyed at a slightly cooler temperature than most reds, around 14°C to 16°C, to highlight their vibrant acidity and aromatic qualities. While many are accessible and enjoyable in their youth, showcasing the fresh and fruity characteristics of the variety, some examples from older vines or more ambitious winemaking practices have the potential to age well, developing more complexity and depth over time.
Food Pairing Suggestions: The combination of acidity, tannins, and red fruit flavours makes Mencía wines versatile with a wide array of dishes. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, charcuterie, and hearty poultry dishes. The wine’s floral and mineral notes also complement earthy vegetarian dishes, including those with mushrooms and root vegetables. Mencía’s bright acidity can balance the richness of fatty fish, such as salmon, or even complement the flavours of spicy and aromatic Asian cuisines.