November Imported Wine: 2012 D Ventura Viña do Burato Mencia, Ribeira Sacra, SPAIN
Ribeira Sacra, meaning ‘sacred banks’ of the Sil and Mino rivers, is a region located near Bierzo in the heart of Galicia and works with the same red varietal, Mencia. Ramon Losada of D. Ventura has 80 year old vines in this ancient wine growing region. Everything is done by hand due to the steep terraces lining the two rivers that form the Denomination.
About Mencia: Mencia is a red-wine grape native to the northwest of Spain. It is most commonly grown in the province of Leon (it is particularly suited to the slate and alluvial soils of the Bierzo region) but is also a principal variety in regions such as the Valdeorras, Monterrei and Ribeira Sacra DOs in neighboring Galicia.
Mencia, which produces thick-skinned, violet-blue grapes, was once thought to be related to Cabernet Franc. Modern DNA testing has disproved this theory, however, but has uncovered that it is in fact genetically identical to Portugual’s Jaen.
In the past, Mencia wines were light bodied and astringent – simple, rustic, regional wines. However, improved viticultural methods and extra vigilance in the winery have recently brought about more promising results with the variety. Wines today are more likely to have a bright complexion with a vivid maroon color, fresh acidity and tannins, and dark-fruit flavors with a herbal dimension of mint or thyme.
Some producers are experimenting with carbonic maceration to accentuate the variety’s fruit characteristics and reduce tannins, and wines made using this method are more approachable in their youth. Mencia has all the attributes needed to gain popularity as more consumers become aware of it.
Varietal: 100% Mencia
Alcohol: 12.5% by volume
Food Pairings: A perfect pairing for Turkey Day! This wine will accent turkey extremely well, and leave everyone wanting more!
Tasting Notes: Deep purple color to the rim with funky, gravel and match strike aromas. These aromas tend to settle down upon decanting or extended aeration. Dark mineral components and violets upfront. Low tannins create a smooth finish with notes of Pomegranate.
Jim Lutfy’s thoughts: “Fantastic wine! A bright burst of fruit for your Thanksgiving meal. Loaded with layers of complexity; the Old World meets the New World. This wine is great with barbeque, turkey and everything in between.”-JL