The grape variety Jaén

Jaén, also known as Mencía in Spain’s Bierzo region, is a red grape variety distinguished by its expressive aromatic profile and elegant palate. Wines produced from Jaén typically offer vibrant aromas of fresh red berries, notably raspberry and strawberry, complemented by delicate floral notes such as violets, as well as nuances of herbs and minerality. On the palate, Jaén wines are medium-bodied with lively acidity, soft tannins, and flavours echoing their aromatic bouquet, often accompanied by subtle hints of spice and earth.

The primary winegrowing regions for Jaén are the Dão and Beira Interior regions of Portugal, where it is locally cherished, and northwestern Spain, especially in Bierzo where it thrives in slate-rich soils. Jaén lends itself to a variety of wine styles, most notably fragrant, youthful reds, as well as elegant, age-worthy examples that reveal savoury complexity over time.

Jaén wines pair exceptionally well with a range of dishes, including grilled poultry, roasted pork, charcuterie, and semi-hard cheeses. Their vivid fruit character and refined structure also make them an excellent partner for Mediterranean cuisine, such as herb-infused lamb or tomato-based pasta dishes.