Luna Beberide, Bierzo (Castilla y León, Spain) Mencia 2009

 This wine is always a textbook example of the pure, fresh style of Mencia from Bierzo, and the 2009 rendition is certainly in keeping with this profile.  It features plush fruit recalling both red and black cherries, with fine balance between fruit, acidity and tannin.  There’s no wood influence to speak of, just vivid fruit with precise flavors and a persistent finish.  The wine’s fruitiness would make it a perfect partner for lightly spicy meats with a bit of charring from the grill.