Dusky, moody florals, deep red, purple and blue – like a sultry old-school perfume but without the sombreness – immediately declare variety, with blueberry, tart wild blackberry, briary herbs and gamey hints reinforcing the impression. This was fermented with native yeasts and saw no additions bar sulphur. Mid-weight, vibrant and varietally on song, along with a briny, iodine mineral edge suggestive of place, this is an excellent example. Points: 94/100
Mencía hails from Bierzo in northwestern Spain where its affinity for a Mediterranean climate has ensured it is very much at home in McLaren Vale. This delightful example pours the deep purple of black cherry juice as the same inky fruit continues in the aromas, against a backdrop of deep, earthy spice. It tastes like ripe plums, baked blueberries and crystallised violets. There’s minerality akin to sea-sprayed volcanic rock and tannins the texture of a graphite drawing pencil. In Bierzo they pair this with grilled meat, and with our Aussie love for BBQ, it seems appropriate to learn from the experts. Points: 90/100
Dusky, moody florals, deep red, purple and blue – like a sultry old-school perfume but without the sombreness – immediately declare variety, with blueberry, tart wild blackberry, briary herbs and gamey hints reinforcing the impression. This was fermented with native yeasts and saw no additions bar sulphur. Mid-weight, vibrant and varietally on song, along with a briny, iodine mineral edge suggestive of place, this is an excellent example. Points: 94/100
