Tilenus Crianza La Florida 2020

Tilenus Crianza La Florida comes from Bierzo, in the west of Castilla y Leon, made by Bodegas Estefania from the La Florida vineyard, a single old plot of 60 to 80 year old Mencía. The region has a continental climate tempered by Atlantic moisture, with an average of 12.3 degrees and a wide range from cold winters to warm summers, which holds acidity and lets the grapes ripen slowly. The vines are planted in slate rich soils that drain well and root deep, lending Mencía its red fruit, floral lift and mineral, graphite edge, while the old vines keep yields low and concentrate flavour. Ageing runs 12 months in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange rounds the tannins and adds gentle spice without masking the fruit. The 2020 shows a deep garnet colour and a refined nose of red and dark fruit, liquorice and herbs over an earthy base. The palate is medium to full, the tannins fine and the finish savoury and long. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, with a short decant. It suits roast and grilled red meat and slow cooked dishes.