At a glance

Producer

Harbor Hollow

Region

Santa Barbara County, California, USA

Grape variety

Mencía

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

Approximately $25-$35 retail (average US market pricing as of 2024 from online wine shops and Wine-Searcher estimates)

Tasting profile

Bright red fruits (cherry, raspberry), floral notes, hints of black pepper and earthy mineral undertones; medium tannins and vibrant acidity

Evolution: With aging, fruit will mature into dried berry and plum notes, earthiness will deepen, and floral perfume will become more pronounced

At peak: During peak, expect complex black cherry, subtle spice, elegant tertiary earth and mineral nuances with softened tannins and balanced freshness

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-plus acidity, delivering freshness and excellent aging potential

Tannins

Moderate tannins - supple and moderately structured typical of Mencía with some grip, resolving with age

Alcohol

Moderate, likely around 13.5-14%, well-integrated for California style

Aging potential

8-10 years from vintage; good acidity and structure allow cellaring for up to a decade

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2028

Optimal window

2022 to 2030

Current status

Ready now with some aging potential

Current condition

The wine is approachable with fresh fruit and vibrant acidity, tannins integrated but will soften further with some cellaring.

The peak window (2024-2028) reflects when the fresh fruit character starts integrating with developing tertiary flavors while tannins soften and acidity remains balanced, creating a harmonious and enjoyable drinking experience. After 2028, fruit vibrancy might fade, and the wine may begin to lose freshness and definition.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted pork, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, charcuterie, and lightly spiced dishes. As it ages, pairs nicely with braised game, earthy stews, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Decanting helps open the aromatic profile and softens the moderate tannic grip present in youthful Mencía

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Likely sustainable practices typical for quality California boutique producers with moderate vineyard management and small production

Harbor Hollow is a smaller, artisanal producer with limited information publicly available on sustainability, but no red flags exist; California's vineyards often employ sustainable or integrated farming to maintain fruit quality.