91 2005 Luna Beberide Finca la Cuesta (Bierzo) 5/30/09 ($22)
100% Mencia, 14% alc
Color: Deep purple black cherry to garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Sweet/tart black cherry that's a little smoky. Has a spicyness reminiscent of pan-fried garlic with excellent acidity. (3.0) Body: Solid middleweight with excellent fruit and acidity, also some tannin. Has a silky, rich mouthfeel. This is a little fuller than the Petalos. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but has sweeter and more delicious fruit propelled by excellent acidity and mineral terroir. Impressive. (3.5) Finish: Parallels flavor, but not quite as intense with a little chalky acidity sticking out and a little cedar lingering. (3.0)
Overall: This is excellent with delicious fruit propelled by acidity and mineral terroir. For its flavor intensity, it's light on its feet with none of the heat or heavyness that I have come to almost expect from New World Pinot Noirs and Cabernet Francs. Split the difference between these New World wines and Red Burgundy and you have an idea of what this wine tastes like. Great value!!! (15.5)