2008 Benaza Mencía Monterrei

For yet another delicious example of the versatile Mencía grape, this unoaked beauty from Benaza should prove to many folks the charm of this delicious grape varietal. The DO of Monterrei is located to the west of Bierzo, on the way to Ribera Sacra and, eventually, Rias Baixas (home to Albariño). The climate is relatively cool by Spanish standards, which reflects in this effortlessly graceful, light to medium-bodied beauty. Full of lively blue and red berry fruits, this gem shows plenty of precision and quaffability, and at only 12% alcohol it is refreshing and delightful to drink. A true vin de soif, or thirst quenching bistro style wine, Spanish style." Our Spanish wine buyer, Joe Manekin, came to me and asked me to taste the 2008 Benaza Mencía Monterrei ($12.99) and wanted to know what I thought. My response after the first couple of sips was, How much is it? Buy all the importer has!' This wine has all the wonderful attributes of a cross between a really good Côtes du Rhône and a bright de-classified, everyday drinking Bourgogne. Medium-deep ruby in color, the nose is bright and flashy with notes of anise, red fruits and blueberries. Medium full, with soft, subtle tannins, the liveliness of this Gem will dance across the palate to a long, refreshing finish. An incredible value for near-term consumption and, according to Anderson, our other house red for the holidays." 12.5% abv. (Jim Barr)