In the hills where La Linea Mencia calls home, the red grape Mencia reigns supreme. Originating from the picturesque regions of Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, and Valdeorras in north-western Spain, Mencia has long been crafted into light, fragrant red wines for early enjoyment. However, a new wave of winemakers, guided by enlightenment, has ushered in a era of more concentrated and complex expressions of this grape.

La Linea Mencia bravely ventured into uncharted territory, becoming the first to cultivate Mencia in the Hills. The risks were palpable—would it thrive, bear fruit, and ripen in this high-altitude terrain? With the vineyard perched at over 450 meters and Lenswood not known for its heat, the choice of a block with lean, shallow clay loam over sandstone was deliberate. This ensured that the vines remained relatively small, a crucial factor in navigating the challenges of the altitude.

Against the odds, Mencia not only grew well but also produced generous crops. To manage this abundance and ensure proper ripening, meticulous thinning became an annual ritual, with exceptions only when the wind intervened.

The story of La Linea Mencia began with its inaugural vintage in 2016, and by the time 2021 rolled around, it had become a tale of triumph. The vintage was marked by fabulous ripening conditions—a dry, warm autumn that bestowed excellent flavor and color upon the healthy crops of various varieties, including Mencia.

Since its inception, La Linea Mencia has amassed accolades and medals, affirming the wisdom of sticking to the original vision. The approach remains unwavering: stay true to the variety and the site. Avoid overripeness, eschew new oak, bottle it while it's young for a fresh, bright, and crunchy profile, and let time work its magic in bottle, fostering complexity.

The 2021 vintage of La Linea Mencia is another glorious chapter in the winery's saga. With aromas reminiscent of both white and black pepper, the wine unfolds with red cherries and plums. Its fleshy character is complemented by a fresh tannin/acid backbone, a unique trait that appeals to youthful palates. Yet, with the patience of cellaring, the wine evolves, gaining depth and complexity. The '21 La Linea Mencia is not just a continuation; it's a downright delicious addition to the ongoing narrative.

Alc/Vol: 13.0%