The varietal, Mencia, is grown primarily in the Northwest part of Spain mostly in the Castille and Leon Region and the appellations of Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, and Valdeorras. Avante’s Mencia comes from Bierzo. Little known outside of Spain, it has become one of the most popular varietals in Spain.

It has a dark, ruby color. It’s very well structured and balanced. I got spice and floral aromas on the nose and the first taste yielded chocolate truffles, but later I tasted cherries and a bit of toasted oak. This wine has a velvety smooth finish. Folks, once this wine breaks into the American market on a larger scale than specialty shops, it’s going to be big. Tempranillo isn’t the only varietal Spain is perfecting. For those that don’t like the fuller-bodied, earthy, and firm tannins of Tempranillo, Mencia may be your wine. One other thing: I’m not sure how well this will age and for how long it should, but I tell you for a young wine, it sure has finesse. Who knows how well it will open up after another five years. You can find this wine at Magnolia’s Wine and Spirits here: http://www.magnoliaws.com/r/products/avante-mencia-2009?id=nsession

Highly recommended; $15