Bodegas Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2023 750ml

Steven - Wine Specialist, Pasadena

Laughing in the face of wine tariff wankers is what we do best. Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2023 is so affordable, so delicious it made the Tariff Sheriff’s most wanted wine list! 

This high-elevation Red Wine from Jumilla Spain strikes a beautiful balance between ripe fullness and structure — the fruit is generous without being jammy, the tannins supportive rather than heavy, and the finish leaves a clean longing desire for the next supple sip.  Dark cherries, plums, a touch of blackcurrant, along with a savory edge—licorice, dark chocolate and a trace of espresso. 

Aromatically, ripe bright black cherry, bramble berries and a hint of mulberry tied to a gentle minerality of limestone and flint derived from the high-altitude vineyard soils. Subtle black pepper, cinnamon bark, and a touch of sweet tobacco/cedar from the mild oak aging (6–8 months in French oak barrels and large foudres).  Hints of dried herbs further complement this alluring wine. 

Food friends: Reds meats (grilled or roasted), duck, lamb mushrooms and rich stews would match well. Also semi-cured cheeses or aged Manchego.