The Monterrei appellation is the smallest D.O in Galicia located on the border of Spain and Portugal. It is one of the lesser known regions in Spain although it is increasing in prominence as their wines are beginning to attract attention. Warmer and drier than most of Galicia, this is primarily a white wine region but they grow some Tempranillo and Bastardo as well as Mencia.
Mencia is native to Northeastern Spain. For much of its history it has been used to make simple table wine but some producers have begun to treat it as a serious wine and its quality is rapidly improving. This version from Vinos de Terrunos is delightful.
Strawberry, cherry and rose and floral aromas are dominant with a pleasant background earthiness. The palate is svelte and juicy but has some steel and nerve with its firm, gravelly texture and strident acidity. Bright pomegranate keeps the mineral core from getting too chippy until the bristly finish launches.
Bright and energetic but detached with pristine coolness like The Eurythmics Here Comes the Rain Again
Score: 88
Price: $16
Alc: 13.5%
Exploring the Philosophy of Food and Wine 