If Mencia Wine Is From Portugal, It Must Be Jaen

The 2020 Taboadella 1255 Jaen Reserva Dao is a Portuguese gem. The 1255 on the label is a nod to the origin of the village, according to records. Some think, however, that the place dates back to the 1st century. Winemaking artifacts reveal some of the oldest wine technology in the Dao.

The wine is made from 100% Jaen grapes, a Portuguese variety which is known in Spain as Mencia. Taboadella Reserva was aged for nine months, 20% in new French oak barrels, 80% in second-use barrels. Alcohol tips 13.5% abv and the retail price is $35.

This wine is medium-dark in the glass. The nose is rich with raspberry and blueberry aromas, while the palate shows dark fruit as well. There is a touch of oak, but it is not at all overdone. The tannins are somewhat fierce upon opening, so let it breathe a bit. The acidity is mouth-watering and the finish is lengthy. Taboadella begs for a thick, juicy steak. 

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