The Iberian red wine variety Menica is a recent arrival to Australia, first landing in our vineyards just over a decade ago. But in that short amount of time, it has made quite a name for itself as a leading candidate for ‘next big thing in alternative varieties’ status, thanks to its medium body, its balance of fruit and spice characteristics, and its food-friendly nature. Recently the Young Gun of Wine gathered every Australian Mencia they could find and set their expert panel the task of finding the wines that compelled the most. All wines were tasted blind, and each panellist named their top six wines. We’re thrilled to share that Hither & Yon’s Mencia was among the standout selections, a proud moment for us.
Excerpt from the Young Gun of Wine Deep Dive: “Selected in the top six by Leske and Perissotto, this wine – the inaugural mencía release from Hither & Yon – stood out for its harmonious blend of ripe fruit and savoury detail. Leske was drawn in by its “beautiful purple hues” and a complex bouquet of “vanilla spice, dried herbs and earthy hints,” calling it “fresh and bright, yet complex.” He praised the palate as “dense and dry, in all the good ways,” with gritty tannin supporting sweet fruit and delivering impressive length. Perissotto highlighted “blueberry lifted by vibrant acidity,” with tannins that were “beautifully integrated – present and persistent, yet never overwhelming.” She loved its “graceful transition from fruit to meatier layers and leather,” concluding, “you only realise how easy it was to drink when the bottle is empty.” Spain took a moment to unpack the wine’s “wild journey,” starting with sweet, confected notes reminiscent of “wine gums,” then finishing with rosehip tea, sumac and coriander seed. “A mencía for all seasons,” she said – equally suited to charcuterie or poolside sipping with a chill.”
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