‘Petalos’ Bierzo 2006

i haven't had much luck with wines recommended by friends to date, but this one changed that luck. it is from spain and is made from a little known grape in this part of the world, the mencia grape. the nose on this one was very nice and it opened up on the second day even more. black cherry, earthy aromas like forest floor, some floral violet notes. very interesting smells that changed and developed as the glass opened up. on the palate, a variety of flavors that began with dark fruits like black cherry and and blackberry, followed by licorice and pepper. this isn't a huge wine but it is certainly complex, something that really gets me excited in a wine. a very interesting wine with a very cool label that sells for about $20, and well worth the price.