Losada Bierzo

I've written about Mencia before, a Spanish grape very reminiscent of Cabernet Franc. Well the Losada from the Bierzo region is a perfect rendition of the variety. It's velvety mouth feel with vibrant fruits is a great match for food. The nose is woody and earthy, with hints of red fruits. The palate has red and black fruits of plums and currants. The tannins are firm and gripping that may mellow with some bottle age or decanting. Some great floral aspects are present on the nose and the wine itself has an elegant finesse that lingers in the finish.

The Bierzo region is in the northwest part of Spain and has been producing wine for hundreds of years. The soil structure is mostly of slate, which gives the wine a mineral aspect in the mid palate. I drink this bottle and immediately want some ripe figs and blue cheese.