Bodegas Olivares ‘Altos de la Hoya’ Monastrell, Jumilla, Spain

Description

Bright and expressive, the 2023 Bodegas Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell embodies the rugged beauty of Jumillas high-altitude vineyards. Sourced from ungrafted old vines rooted in limestone-rich soils, this wine highlights the full character of Monastrell with layers of ripe fruit, lively tannins, and a finish that lingers with elegance.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 9095% Monastrell (old ungrafted vines), 510% Garnacha
• Vineyard: Hoya de Santa Ana estate, Jumilla DOP, 830840m elevation, sandy loam soils with high limestone content, dry-farmed
• Harvest: Hand-picked, first half of October
• Aging: 68 months in used 500L French oak barrels and large 6,00010,000L oak vats
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Total Acidity: 5.4 g/L (tartaric acid)
• Residual Sugar: 2.1 g/L

Sensory Description:

In the glass, the wine shows an intense cherry red with a purple rim. The nose reveals concentrated aromas of red fruits, cherries, and subtle floral tones, underpinned by elegance and freshness. The palate is enveloping, bursting with pure Monastrell fruit alongside noble, lively tannins. The finish is long, savory, and full of character, reflecting both the altitude and the unique soils of Jumilla.

Awards & Accolades:

• Critic Tasting Note (2023 vintage): Rich black cherries, slightly roasted, accompanied by hints of paprika and sweet spices. The medium body offers ripe, juicy fruit alongside lightly chewy tannins. Drink now. James Suckling

Winemaker’s Background:

Bodegas Olivares has been crafting wines in Jumilla since 1930, when founder Pascual Olivares Fernndez recognized the potential of the native Monastrell grape. Over generations, the family expanded from local to national and later international markets, establishing itself as one of the regions benchmarks. The release of Altos de la Hoya in 2000 marked a turning point, showcasing dry Monastrell as a noble variety capable of elegance and distinction. Today, under the stewardship of the Olivares familys third and fourth generations, the winery continues to focus on vineyard-driven wines that honor their roots while embracing modern quality standards.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 6065 F (1618 C) after decanting to allow the wines full aromatic range to unfold. Altos de la Hoya pairs beautifully with red meats, duck breast with a Monastrell wine reduction, or grilled kid goat with wild mushrooms. It also complements ricotta cheese with cranberry compote, offering both savory and sweet pairings for an elevated dining experience.

The 2023 Bodegas Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell is a true ambassador of Jumillas terroir, uniting history, family tradition, and the soulful expression of old-vine Monastrell in every glass.