Grape Variety
Jaen
"zhah-EN (men-THEE-ah)"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Jaen
Origin
Iberian Peninsula
History
Jaen, known as Mencía in Spain, is a red grape variety native to the western part of the Iberian Peninsula. In Spain, it is primarily found in the Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, Valdeorras, and Monterrei wine regions, covering over 9,100 hectares. In Portugal, it is predominantly grown in the Dão region, occupying around 2,500 hectares. Historically, wines produced from Mencía were light and fragrant, but modern winemaking techniques have led to more concentrated and complex expressions.
Appearance
Small to medium-sized clusters of dark blue-black grapes.
Growing Traits
Mencía is well-suited to the maritime climate of regions like Bierzo, where it ripens early, typically by mid-September. The grape thrives in diverse soil types, including slate and granite, which contribute to the wine's minerality. Vines are often planted on steep, terraced slopes, particularly in Ribeira Sacra, making mechanization challenging and necessitating hand-harvesting.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
2/5
Acidity
3/5
Alcohol
2/5
Medium-bodied with a balance of red fruit flavors and floral notes, offering a smooth and rounded mouthfeel. Typically dry, highlighting its fresh and vibrant character. Moderate tannins, providing structure without overwhelming the palate. Medium to high acidity, contributing to its freshness and enhancing its food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging between 12% and 14%, providing a balanced and approachable character.
Taste Profile
Red Cherry
Blackberry
Violet
Mineral
Herbal
Mencía wines are known for their aromatic profile, featuring red and black fruit aromas, such as cherry and blackberry, complemented by floral notes of violet. On the palate, they exhibit medium body, moderate tannins, and a distinct minerality, with flavors mirroring the aromatic profile. The finish is typically fresh and lingering, making these wines particularly enjoyable when consumed young, though some expressions have aging potential.
Food Pairing
Mencía's medium body, moderate tannins, and vibrant acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as lamb or pork, and complements dishes featuring earthy flavors like mushrooms or lentils. The wine's red fruit and floral notes also make it suitable for pairing with poultry, charcuterie, and semi-hard cheeses. Its freshness can balance richer dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Growing Regions
Spain
BierzoRibeira SacraValdeorrasMonterrei
Portugal
Dão
Notable Wines & Producers
Pétalos del Bierzo
Descendientes de J. Palacios
Ultreia Saint Jacques
Raúl Pérez
Quinta dos Roques Jaen
Quinta dos Roques
Jaen FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Jaen?
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Iberian Peninsula
Is Jaen wine full bodied?
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Jaen has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Jaen is Moderate bodied.
Is Jaen wine dry or sweet?
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Jaen has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Jaen is Dry.
Where is Jaen wine from?
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Iberian Peninsula
Where is Jaen grown?
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Jaen is grown in Spain (Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, Valdeorras, Monterrei)Portugal (Dão).
What is Jaen like?
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Mencía wines are known for their aromatic profile, featuring red and black fruit aromas, such as cherry and blackberry, complemented by floral notes of violet. On the palate, they exhibit medium body, moderate tannins, and a distinct minerality, with flavors mirroring the aromatic profile. The finish is typically fresh and lingering, making these wines particularly enjoyable when consumed young, though some expressions have aging potential.
What does Jaen pair with?
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Mencía's medium body, moderate tannins, and vibrant acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as lamb or pork, and complements dishes featuring earthy flavors like mushrooms or lentils. The wine's red fruit and floral notes also make it suitable for pairing with poultry, charcuterie, and semi-hard cheeses. Its freshness can balance richer dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
What does Jaen taste like?
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Mencía wines are known for their aromatic profile, featuring red and black fruit aromas, such as cherry and blackberry, complemented by floral notes of violet. On the palate, they exhibit medium body, moderate tannins, and a distinct minerality, with flavors mirroring the aromatic profile. The finish is typically fresh and lingering, making these wines particularly enjoyable when consumed young, though some expressions have aging potential.
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