Luna Beberide, Bierzo (Spain) Mencia 2010

This is a marvelously pure and fresh rendition of Mencia, showing quite modest oak influence and rather light tannin, but still plenty of structure derived much more from acidity than any other element.  It shows fruit with both red and black cherry tones as well as blackberry character, with plenty of punch for serving with robust foods but no excessive weight, making it very promising for lighter fare based on duck, pork or veal.  Already a compelling wine, this will become even more interesting with time as it picks up tertiary aromas and flavor accents.