2021 Envinate Albahra Garnacha Tintorrera

Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

Other Reviews....
The 2021 Albahra was produced with a blend of 70% Garnacha Tintorera and 30% Moravia Agria, mixing grapes from Almansa and Manchuela. The Garnacha Tintorera fermented with 60% full clusters in open concrete vats, and the Moravia Agria was destemmed and had a short maceration. The Garnacha Tintorera matured in concrete for eight months and the Moravia Agria in used barrels, 228- and 500-liter ones. It has 13% alcohol and good freshness and acidity. Surprisingly enough, 2021 was a warmer year in the zone, and the wine has notes of strawberry confiture; and it has a rounder palate and is juicier, with a velvety mouthfeel. 59,500 bottles and 600 magnums produced. It was bottled in June 2022. Drink 2023-2028.
94 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate