Mencia is a medium bodied red wine grape from North West Spain and Portugal.
The aromatic grape is known as Jaen in Portugal.
Mencia is an aromatic red wine grape primarly grown in Ribeira Sacra and Valdeorras regions of Galicia DO and Bierzo DO in Castilla y Leon (Spain).
In Portugal the main growing regions are Dao and Beira Interior.
The schist soils of the hillsides of Galicia add concentration and the high altitude climate adds rich fruit aromas.
Mencias aromatic qualities are also related to volatile compounds called Terpenoids responsible for the pungent herbal and fruity character.
Mencia is similar to Pinot Noir, Gamay, Schiava or cool climate Merlot, just with some more tannins.
Mencia is known for fruity, light red wines enjoyed when young.