~$20US, 100% Mencia, Bierzo, Spain

Deep purple and magenta. Almost thick in it’s aromatics with robust plum, blueberry, black cherry, earthy wet leaves, leather and dried herbs - oregano. Lots of complexity on the nose; echoed on the palate. Medium weight and mercurial - lots of fruit, herbal, and earthy interplay. Anise one moment, curry another, dry smokiness then peppery spice. Perfect fruit ripeness, good acidic lift = richness with vibrancy.

This is real, interesting wine - and so far, the best value wearing the Palacios name that I’ve tasted.

With wines like this in the $20 range, Bierzo a region to watch.