The oddly named 2009 Congo is a pure Garnacha from the Alberche Valley – a selection of the best bunches from a 0.8-hectare parcel of vines raised for 18 months in French oak. The stem addition lends this an intriguing, well-defined, character-driven bouquet with raspberry leaf, cranberry and a touch of undergrowth. The palate is fresh on the entry with crisp raspberry and red currant fruit. It is very well-balanced with a clean, linear, enticing bouquet that is sophisticated and very appealing. Superb. Drink now-2018. Now here is a challenger to Jimenez-Landi’s crown but, hey, it is great to see two Mentrida growers giving the region such a good name. It was formed in 2004 by Alfonso Chacon y Belarmino Fernandez when they began acquiring parcels of Garnacha on unique terroirs. Their wines come highly recommended: natural, full of character and charm, Mentrida wines you want to contemplate and savor. Importer: Vino et Spiritus, Des Plaines, IL; tel. (847) 668-8891