*tasting note at the bottom

**Part of the ‘Spanish Value Experiment

As I was mainly avoiding regions I knew well for this project, I’ve tasted no Mencia so far, as I’m well acquainted with the wines of Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, Ribeiro and Valdeorras. In fact, there’s only one region of Galicia that I’ve never really gotten to grips with, and that’s the tiny province of Monterrei. It’s much the warmest and driest region within Galicia, which whilst a boon for quality wine is also advantageous for anyone looking to produce large quantities of bulk wine as well. The only winery I’ve ever really heard anyone talk about from the region is Quinta Da Muradella, and I’ve never had the pleasure of trying their wines.

The wine chosen, Benito Santos Mencia 2015, is actually made in a winery in Pontevedra in DO Rias Baixas, by one of Galicia’s favourite sons. Benito Santos made his name in his grandfathers vineyards, where he’s worked since the 1930’s, and played a key role in the formation of DO Rias Baixas. There isn’t any detail of his work in DO Monterrei, but he’s one of very few producers to pursue organic production in the wet, mildew-prone Rias Baixas and tends to be quite minimal production in style. I think it’s a fair assumption to say he’s probably aiming for quality over quantity!

Tasting Note

100% Mencia, presumably purchased from growers in the region, from 25 year old vineyards. Fermentation in stainless steel and no mention of oak usage. 13% ABV

Pale and very youthful in appearance, with a lovely clean-fruited nose. Ripe cherry and strawberry fruits mingle with violets, sappy herbs and a touch of licorice. Juicy and fresh on the palate, with surprisingly soft tannins and vibrant acidity; light on power but a very elegant expression of Mencia indeed. The marginally warmer climate is noticeable in the fruit profile, and there’s not as much pepper and spice as a lot of the other Galician Mencia, but this is really quite lovely. 89Pts.

Purchased from Vinissimus for €8.20