Ministry of Clouds Mencía 2023

Ministry of Clouds Mencía is a McLaren Vale red made from Mencía, the Spanish grape best known from Bierzo in north west Spain.

Ministry of Clouds is a small McLaren Vale label founded by Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood, who came to winemaking after long careers in the wine trade. They work with growers across the region, with a particular focus on the old sandy sites of Blewitt Springs, and favour gentle, low-intervention winemaking that keeps the emphasis on site and freshness rather than oak or extraction. Mencía is a rare planting in Australia, but its fresh, fine-grained character suits McLaren Vale's warm, maritime climate, where afternoon sea breezes from Gulf St Vincent help the grape hold its acidity. The wine is made to show the variety's natural brightness and is sealed under screwcap to preserve that freshness.

A medium-bodied, fresh red that works well with grilled lamb, chorizo and roast vegetables; serve slightly cool at around 15 to 16 degrees.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.