Ministry of Clouds Mencia McLaren Vale 2023 (1x75cl)

Estate
Ministry of Clouds, founded by Julian Forwood and Bernice Ong. James Halliday Five Red Star (top 2%). They own no vineyards and vinify by parcel rather than by brand.

Region
McLaren Vale, moderated by afternoon sea breezes.

Variety & Style
Mencia is exceptionally rare in Australia. Native to Bierzo in north-west Spain, it gives medium-bodied, high-acid wines with pronounced floral and mineral character — the opposite of the density most Australian reds pursue.

What to Expect
If you expect a typical Australian red, this will surprise you: it is light, fresh and aromatic. That is the variety, not a flaw. Choose it precisely because it is something you will struggle to find elsewhere in Hong Kong.

Serving
14–16°C — a light chill works. Roast chicken, cured ham, tomato dishes, moderately spiced food.