Quite Bierzo Mencía '23

Quite Bierzo Mencía '23Vernica Ortega is one of the most compelling winemakers working in Bierzo today a small, rugged appellation in the mountains of northwestern Spain where Menca, the regions indigenous red grape, produces wines of remarkable freshness and complexity. Quite meaning stay or stop in Galician is her entry level cuve, and its anything but ordinary. Grown on old vine slate and clay soils at altitude, the grapes are farmed with minimal intervention and

Verónica Ortega is one of the most compelling winemakers working in Bierzo today — a small, rugged appellation in the mountains of northwestern Spain where Mencía, the region’s indigenous red grape, produces wines of remarkable freshness and complexity. Quite — meaning “stay” or “stop” in Galician — is her entry-level cuvée, and it’s anything but ordinary.

Grown on old-vine slate and clay soils at altitude, the grapes are farmed with minimal intervention and vinified to preserve the natural energy and character of the terroir. Deep ruby-violet in the glass, it opens with a vivid and aromatic nose: fresh blackberry, wild cherry, violet, crushed slate, and a cool herbal lift that speaks to the mountain origins of the fruit. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and silky — bright acidity, fine tannins, and a long, mineral, slightly savoury finish. Elegant and precise for the price.

For lovers of Pinot Noir and Gamay who want something with a little more grip and soul.