Alicante D.O. Monastrell 2018 Bodegas Mendoza "La Tremenda" 750ml

Description: So well respected is Enrique Mendoza that it was inducted into the prestigious Grandes Pagos de España. This group’s mission is to defend and propagate the culture of “pago” wine, meaning wine produced in a specific terroir that reflects the distinct personality of the soil and climate. To become a member, a vineyard must surpass strict quality standards and also exhibit a degree of uniqueness in terms of soil, climate or grape variety that sets it apart from the surrounding area. The climate in Alicante is sunny and warm. To keep grapes cool, the vines are bush-trained low to the ground, so that the leaf canopy protects the grapes and also shades the soil around the vine so no heat is reflected back onto the fruit. This insures a slower ripening process that leads to higher quality fruit. This emerging wine region has established a solid reputation for quality reds at good value. Despite the southerly location, the wines retain the zest and Alicante (spiciness) for which the DO is named.

Nice burgundy color with aromas of cherry compote, garrigue herbs, and burnt toast. The palate has firm tannin intertwined throughout the length of the palate. Notes of dried raspberry, tobacco, and cherry cigar box character. Medium-body wine that really displays terroir, unique characteristics that are directly related to the Monastrell grape and the land of Alicante.

Food pairing: Pork chops, beef tenderloin, manchego cheese, grilled or stewed meat, mushrooms, vegetables, oxtails, hamburgers, cured meats, etc.