La Bienquerida 2022

Losada Vinos de Finca makes La Bienquerida in Bierzo from one hundred percent Mencia, taking the fruit from the estate vineyard that gives the wine its name. The vines grow on a mix of clay, slate and stony soils, the slate in particular forcing roots deep and lending Mencia its characteristic graphite minerality. Bierzo sits in a sheltered valley with both Atlantic and continental influence, so the fruit ripens fully while keeping freshness. The harvest is done by hand, with bunches carried to the winery in 20 kilogram crates so the grapes are not crushed under their own weight, which avoids early oxidation and keeps the fruit clean. The wine ages 15 months in French oak, gentle enough to frame rather than dominate at 13.5 percent. It shows a bright ruby colour, with aromas of red berries, cherry and plum over a savoury, earthy base lifted by pepper and a touch of smoke. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with fine tannin and an elegant finish. Serve at 16 degrees, with no decanting needed. It works with roast pork, game birds and mushroom dishes.