Merayo Mencia Bierzo DO 2020

The Merayo family has been growing grapes for generations in the Bierzo region of northwestern Spain. Pilgrims on the historic Camino de Santiago de Compostela can be seen from the estate’s 25 ha of picturesque vineyards. Bierzo is home to the mencía grape, a somewhat overlooked varietal that often evokes comparisons to pinot noir, thanks to its medium-bodied profile and fresh red fruit character, and Merayo’s vineyards include some 80-100 year old bush mencía vines planted on slopes of pebbled clay soils. For this easy drinking red, fruit from 60 year old bush vines is fermented along with yields from younger vines, for an average vine age of 20 years. The use of old vine fruit lends distinctive character and concentration and represents a remarkable value for an entry-level wine. Young winemaker Juan Merayo carefully ferments the juice for 10 days in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, before aging for six months on the fine lees, followed by a one week period of micro-oxygenation before bottling. Vibrant red cherry, berry, and pomegranate mingle with layers of spice and crushed herbs. Rounded tannins and a lingering finish make this a versatile match with a variety of foods, as well as an outstanding value. Sustainably grown, vegan.