La Atalaya del Camino 2023

La Atalaya del Camino 2023 is a red from D.O. Almansa in Castilla La Mancha, made by Bodegas Atalaya within Juan Gil's Gil Family Estates. It blends Garnacha Tintorera, also known as Alicante Bouschet, with Monastrell, two varieties suited to the hot, dry continental conditions of this high inland plateau. The warm climate and poor soils drive low yields and deep ripeness, producing concentrated, full bodied wine with the 15 per cent alcohol typical of the region. Garnacha Tintorera is unusual in having red flesh as well as red skin, which gives the wine its dense colour and bold dark fruit, while Monastrell adds structure and a savoury, herbal edge. Twelve months in French oak frame the fruit with spice and toast and let slow oxygen exchange soften the tannins. The wine is warm and powerful, with ripe red and black fruit, dried herbs and hay, black pepper and a streak of liquorice and dark chocolate, with vanilla from the oak. The tannins are ripe and the finish long and warming. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees with grilled red meat or hearty stews.