Mencia

The Mencía grape is a red grape variety native to the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, known for its prominent role in the wine-growing regions of Ribeira Sacra and El Bierzo, although it is also grown in other areas such as Valdeorras and Monterrei in Galicia, as well as in parts of northern Portugal.

The Mencía grape has a rich and complex history. Although it was thought to be related to Cabernet Franc due to its similarity, recent DNA studies have confirmed that it is a unique variety. It is believed to have been introduced to the Iberian Peninsula by the Romans and has been present in the regions of El Bierzo and Galicia for centuries.

During the phylloxera epidemic at the end of the 19th century, many Mencía vines were devastated. However, the variety recovered thanks to grafting techniques and the efforts of local winegrowers. In recent decades, Mencía has experienced a renaissance, gaining recognition both nationally and internationally for the quality of its wines.

In the Ribeira Sacra, viticulture is known as "heroic" due to the steep slopes where the vines are grown. Mencía wines from Ribeira Sacra are appreciated for their freshness, fruity notes of raspberry, cherry and subtle spicy touches.

El Bierzo is considered the birthplace of Mencía, this region benefits from a special microclimate that combines Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. Wines from El Bierzo tend to be more mineral, with flavours ranging from red fruits to herbs and a hint of earth.

Wines made from Mencía tend to be medium-bodied, with balanced acidity and moderate tannins. They have an aromatic palette that includes notes of red fruits (raspberry, cherry, plum), as well as floral nuances (violets, roses) and spices (black pepper, cloves).

José Antonio García is renowned for his high-quality wines from century-old vines in El Bierzo, while in Ribeira Sacra, Saíñas and Clarabal he stands out for his focus on organic and low-intervention viticulture, while Lagar do Vento stands out for regenerative viticulture.