Envínate Albarha Vinos Mediterraneos 2021. Envínate (translates as “wine yourself”) is the brainchild of 4 friends, winemakers Roberto Santana, Alfonso Torrente, Laura Ramos, and José Martínez. This gang of 4 formed back in 2005 while studying enology at the University of Miguel Hernandez in Alicante. They are part of the group that Telmo Rodriguez refers to as the “new generation of Spanish winemakers”, pushing the boundaries of Spanish winemaking. The wine’s name Albahra is Castilian for “small sea”. It is named for the vineyard area in the Almansa region close to the town of Albacete, located at the southeastern tip of Castilla-La Mancha.
The bottle’s capsule is of yellow wax rather than the usual metal or plastic making it more of a ceremony opening the bottle. Producers sometimes opt for a wax seal in lieu of metallic or plastic ones, not only for its decorative value but also for its potential to prolong the freshness of the wine. While a metallic capsule can safeguard the cork from harm, it cannot impede the transfer of oxygen between the inside and outside of the bottle. On the other hand, a wax capsule provides a near air-tight seal that minimizes oxygen exchange, akin to a screw cap.
I enjoyed this wine over two days, and each day I found subtle nuances. Upon opening it was a beautiful deep ruby along the lines of a cru Cote du Rhone. The wine boasts authentic and vibrant fragrances of red fruits and spices, mingled with hints of berries, cherries, and floral notes. It delivers a satisfying, full-bodied experience with subtle earthy undertones, complemented by luscious dark fruit flavors and a touch of pepper. The tannins are refined and velvety, providing a silky-smooth texture. $25.