Flavium Bierzo Crianza 2005

Today finds us back in Spain and specifically in the DO Bierzo which is located in the worthwest of Spain in the province of León. It is located in a mountainous region but the area contains numerous small valleys and a   microclimate that is great for viticulture. It is from this region that Vinos de Arganza produces the Flavium Bierzo Crianza. To break down this name, Flavium is the wine label, Bierzo is the Region and Cianza is the specific style of wine which is governed by specific rules from the DO. In this case, a Crianza must be aged at least 6 months in oak and 18 months in the bottle.

For those of you wondering, the varietal of grape this wine is made from is Mencia. At one time it was thought that Mencia was an ancestor of the Cabernet Franc grape. Alas, DNA testing shows that it is not related to Cab Franc at all and that it is actually identical to an obscure Portuguese varietal. Or should I say that the Portuguese varietal is identical to it. In either case, this wine is made from 100% Mencia grapes.

The beauty of this little number is the value. It is a really nicely balanced wine that comes in at right around $10 per bottle. It is medium garnet in color and a nose that shows black cherry, fig and dates. There is a hint of alcohol in the nose, not unexpected at 12.5% ABV. On the palate you get a medium bodied wine that only offers hints of black cherry and date and which leaves a lingering aftertaste of an apple. There just a bit of acidity and a touch of tannins, just enough to brighten up this wine. All in all, this is an excellent wine, something that will easily pair with pork or a pasta dish. There’s just enough fruit to make it a nice sipper as well, something the Ms Cocktail was quick to note.