2022 Casar de Burbia - Mencia (750ml)

Casar de Burbia began with Nemesio Fernández Bruña, whose family started the estate, and truly took root in 1989 when he set out to buy up old, neglected vineyards across Bierzo. Today the winery remains a family affair, built on organic farming, ongoing work with the region's indigenous grape varieties, and a growing lineup of single-vineyard wines. Based in Valtuille de Arriba, in León's Bierzo appellation, the estate has become one of the region's most respected names for expressing Mencía with real precision.

This Mencía comes entirely from the lower, clay-rich plots of several estate vineyards around Valtuille de Arriba, farmed with vines averaging around forty years old and planted in dense rows to keep their natural vigor in check. The grapes are hand-harvested and given a cold pre-maceration to draw out delicate aromatics, then each parcel ferments separately in small stainless steel tanks before the wine rests on its fine lees for about two months. It finishes with roughly ten to twelve months in second- and third-use French oak, adding depth without overwhelming the fruit.

The 2022 shows a deep violet color and a complex nose of cherry, blueberry, violet, and geranium, layered with hints of underbrush and a touch of smoke and licorice from the oak. On the palate it's vibrant and spicy, with polished, well-integrated tannins, bright acidity, and a long, mineral finish. Pour it alongside grilled beef, roasted vegetables, or a simple tapas spread.