region: Bierzo, Castile and Leon, Spain
Grape(s): Menca
Winemaker: Daniel & Gonzago Amigo Rodriguez
Farming: practicing sustainable
Located in the northwest corner of Castille and Leon, it wasnt until 1989 that the tiny, rural region of Bierzo gained official DOC status. The Romans brought the common grapevine to the region when they founded the ancient precursor to Bierzo, the city of Bergidum. In the ninth century, the vines were cultivated by Cistercian monks at the Santa Mara de Carracedo monastery, which still stands today. Now, brothers Gonzalo and Daniel Amigo tend the 100+ year old Menca and Godello vines at their Madai estate. With a very ripe
berry pie
nose, hints of
clove
,
cherry pit
, and
cocoa
, this wine drinks elegantly but with some structure. This is something new for Pinot Noir drinkers to try!
Pairing: Chicken Cacciatore
