2014 Godelia Mencia ($19)

In a recent Behind the Cork™ - Wine of the Week I reviewed Godelia's White blend of Godello & Doña Blanco. I had to admit that I needed to do some research on these grape varieties. Here again, I need to do some homework.

The Mencia (men-thee-ah) grape is native to the northwest of Spain, with probably origins in Portugal. While in the past it has been only associated with table wines, the Mencia grape is becoming more widely known as a varietal.

The Godelia Mencia is cold-soaked and then begins to ferment as the tanks warm. The wine continues to soak on the skins for another six day. It spends 12 months on 90% French oak and 10% American oak, one-third of it being new oak.

This wine is very light on the nose, but exhibits good acidity and tannin, medium-bodied flavors of sour cherry and black licorice and finishes with a bit of characteristic acidity.

This was another fascinating introduction to a grape varietal. Godelia Mencia is definitely worth checking out. As a medium-bodied wine it pairs well with meat and cheese platters, a bold Spaghetti sauce or a nice grilled steak.

If you aren't familiar with Mencia, I strongly suggest given this one from Godelia a try! Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission:  I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Donna White Communications