Demencia is a boutique wine project from the Bierzo region in northwestern Spain, and it’s particularly known for its modern expression of the Mencía grape, the hallmark variety of Bierzo.
Project Overview
- Name: Demencia de Autor
- Founder: Nacho León, a passionate, young winemaker from the Bierzo region.
- Established: Early 2000s.
- Philosophy: Combine traditional viticulture (old vines, low intervention) with modern enology, aiming to show the authentic character of Mencía and the unique terroir of Bierzo.
Vineyards & Viticulture
- Location: Bierzo, particularly around Villafranca del Bierzo.
- Vine Age: Very old vines, often over 80 years old.
- Altitude & Soil: Sloped vineyards with slate and clay soils, providing good drainage and minerality.
- Farming: Organic or minimal intervention—focused on sustainability and respect for biodiversity.
Wines
1. Demencia
- Flagship wine.
- 100% Mencía.
- Aged in French oak, but not overly oaked—balanced and elegant.
- Profile: Deep, intense, complex. Ripe red and black fruits, floral notes, spice, and a distinct mineral backbone.
- Production: Very small quantities—each bottle reflects micro-parcels and terroir detail.
2. Pyjama
- A fresher, more approachable Mencía—Demencia’s «second wine.»
- Made from younger vines or less structured plots.
- Profile: Juicy, vibrant, fruit-driven, with less oak and more immediacy.
- Concept: Named as a playful contrast to the seriousness of «Demencia»—meant to be enjoyed in a relaxed setting.
Meaning Behind “Demencia”
- The name “Demencia” (Spanish for dementia or madness) is a play on words:
- It hints at the «crazy» idea of starting such a small, artisanal project in a commercial wine world.
- Also a nod to the dedication and mad passion required to craft wine in such a meticulous, old-school way.
Demencia’s Role in Bierzo
- Part of a new wave of Bierzo winemakers redefining the region.
- Focus on terroir expression, authenticity, and quality over volume.
- A respected voice in the resurgence of Mencía as a serious, world-class grape variety.
If you’re into wines that tell a story—crafted by hand, with a clear sense of place and identity—Demencia is an excellent choice.