This tasty little rosado from Spain's underrated region of Bierzo is crisp and refreshing, and easy on the wallet. For around 10 dollars, we get a 100% varietal - in this case; Mencia, old bush vines, and lots of tasty freshness and acidity. All that and a sassy label - that's a pretty great scenario.
Region - Bierzo, Spain.
Mencia (also known as Jaen in neighboring Portugal) is the signature grape of the Bierzo region in Northwest Spain. It's a naturally high acid grape (think Pinot Noir) and has typical flavors/aromas of strawberry and some interesting herbal qualities as well like mint. Vino translation... this is a great food wine - that acidity is going to cut right through anything fatty or spicy.
This rosado is a great value, as are the red (tinto ) wines from that region - so make sure to try one when you get the chance.
The Verdict
Color -pastel pink
Nose - cranberry, wild strawberry, herbaceous (tarragon?)
Palate - dry, strawberry, mineral, hint of mint
Price: $10.99
Pairing: drank this alongside my signature Caesar salad. Perfection!!
