Robert Parker, Jr.-The Wine Advocate:  Rated as An outstanding wine of exceptional complexity and character. "The 2008 Alvarez de Toledo displays an already complex aromatic array of balsamic, mineral, leather, and black plum. Elegant, smooth, and velvety-textured, this spicy, full-flavored offering can be enjoyed now but will evolve for another 2-3 years. It is an outstanding value." Jun 2011

"It is no secret that Spanish wine sales in the United States are better then ever . . . Despite the unfavorable Euro, Spain still manages to send a remarkable number of great values our way. It is clearly a buyer's market."
~Jay Miller, The Wine Advocate

Winery:  "Our wine stands out because of its marked fruity character which brings out all the qualities and characteristics of the Mencia variety. Its time in the barrel accentuates these qualities by providing subtlety, elegance and complexity. In mouth is silky, fruity, with persistence and great kindness."

Wired For Wine:  Looking for a red wine which Parker's Wine Advocate refers to as an "outstanding value"? We found it!!  This Alvarez de Toledo Mencia Roble is complex, full of fruit, and velvety smooth.  It's ready to drink now, or you can hang onto it for another 2-3 years.  Your choice.  We're opening ours now...  When your first bottle is open, think cured meats and tapas. A platter of Jamon Iberico and some Manchego cheese will do us just fine. Ham croquettas wouldn't hurt either.  The delicious notes of balsamic, ripe, dark plum, leather and minerals make this Mencia Roble the ideal choice for roasted meats from venison to game birds.  Charred flavors are heavenly opposite the lush fruit of this Alvarez de Toledo.  Our first choice, and great for a crowd, is a roast suckling pig. Olive-crusted roast racks of lamb are another terrific option.  Pan-fried pork chops with garbanzo beans, tomatoes and paprika will have everybody smiling too. You'll want to get out the goblets for this phenomenal Spaniard winelovers!  Es tan delicioso, baby!

Size:  750ml; cork
Varietal:  100% Mencia
Alcohol:  @14.0%
Aging:    10 months in American and French oak barrels with a capacity of 225 litters each.
Region:   Bierzo, Castilla Leon, Spain