SMALL VINTAGE ALERT!

LUCKY YOU! Once again we have secured some of this coveted wine from Bodegas Atalaya. Be warned that the 2023 vintage of Laya is about 35% smaller than prior vintages, making it one of the smallest vintages in several years. Snatch up a case of this incredible wine before we sell out!

Bodegas Atalaya, located 3 km from Almansa (Albacete), is comprised of 110 hectares (about 272 acres) of estate vineyards in Southeastern Spain, which experienced significant climatic challenges during the 2023 grape-growing season, including drought and high temperatures. These vineyards, situated at an altitude between 2,300 and 3,300 feet above sea level, grow on predominantly calcareous soils. The vines, which have maintained their vigor for centuries, yield grapes that fully express the native varieties Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell. The result is expressive, silky red wines that capture the scarlet essence of the land. These wines are dominated by the violet hues of Garnacha Tintorera, while also showcasing the smoothness and boldness of Monastrell.

Bodegas Atalaya was founded by the Gil Family in 2007 in partnership with Pepe Sáez (José Sáez Albertos). In Spanish, the word "Atalaya" translates to "watchtower" or "lookout." It refers to a high vantage point or tower used historically for surveillance or to keep an eye out for approaching danger or significant events. The term is often associated with the idea of overseeing a broad landscape, which fits well with the concept of looking out over a vineyard or a larger area from a high elevation.

In the context of Bodegas Atalaya, the name symbolizes the Gil Family's elevated position in terms of quality and its expansive view over the wine regions they work with, aligning with the idea of vigilance and care in crafting exceptional wines. The Gil family has been making wine in Spain since 1916. One of the prominent winemaking families in Spain, they now own 11 wineries across 10 different growing regions with over 4,300 acres under vine. The family’s commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation results in wines that are both distinctive and approachable. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures that the wines continue to evolve while honoring the heritage of their land.

If you look at the map of Almansa below you can see there is a spot officially named Atalaya. That is where the winery was built.

The origin of the name Laya is both logical and sweet, coming from Toni, the Grandson of cofounder, Pepe Saez. The little boy back then, around 3 or 4 years old, loved to go to the winery with his grandfather. Unable to say the full word “Atalaya”, he would instead say “Grandpa I want go Laya”. Pepe thought this sounded like a great name for a wine and so “Laya” was born.

The 2023 Laya is made with 70% Garnacha Tintorera and 30% Monastrell grapes from estate-owned vineyards, averaging over 30 years, grown without irrigation. The vines are bush-trained and primarily located in calcareous, stony soils that are poor in nutrients. The grapes used to produce this wine come from certified organic vineyards of Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell.

The grapes are fermented in open stainless-steel tanks for approximately two weeks, allowing the alcoholic fermentation to fully complete. Neutral, selected yeasts are used to ensure controlled fermentation, tailored to the analytical parameters characteristic of Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell grapes from this region. The malolactic fermentation takes place in used French oak barrels (Bordeaux-style), where the wine remains for approximately four months. The careful and sustainable work carried out in the vineyards and in the winery’s non-interventionist practices, result in a wine that displays all the potential which these varietals are capable of offering.

These two varietals are often considered the unsung heroes of the wine industry, particularly in Spain, where they play crucial roles in creating some of the country’s most expressive and versatile wines. While other varieties like Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon tend to steal the spotlight, these two grapes have unique qualities that make them stand out, yet they often go underappreciated on the global stage.

Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet)

Garnacha Tintorera is a distinctive red grape, known for its deep, intense color and powerful fruit-forward flavors. Unlike most red wine grapes, its flesh is also pigmented, which contributes to its rich color, making it particularly appealing for winemakers looking for vibrant, full-bodied wines. As is the case with Laya, the grape is often used in blends. When showcased on its own, it offers bold flavors of dark berries, plums, and subtle spice, with an added layer of tannin and acidity that makes it well-suited for aging.

Despite its contributions, it is less recognized outside of Spain and remains under the radar compared to other famous varietals, which is a shame given its unique qualities. But now you are in on the secret!

Monastrell (Mourvèdre)

Monastrell, known internationally as Mourvèdre, is a grape that thrives in Spain's sun-drenched regions. It is prized for its ability to create wines that are rich, full-bodied, and deeply flavorful, with characteristics of blackberries, plums, and earthy, savory notes. Monastrell has a natural affinity for creating wines with bold tannins and high acidity, making it a strong contender for aging.

The grape’s thick skins make it resistant to the elements, producing wines that have structure and depth. While Monastrell excels in blending, it also shines as a single-variety wine, offering complexity and richness. However, it often gets overshadowed by more famous varieties, despite its impressive potential.

This wine has racked up more than twenty 90+ point scores on the last 8 vintages. This kind of consistency is rare, especially for a wine priced under $10! The highly acclaimed 2023 Laya scored 91 points from Guia Peñin (Spain’s most famous and comprehensive wine guide) and 90 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

“It has a very dark color and an expressive nose redolent of black olives and tomato vine, notes descriptive of the variety, with a Northern Rhone whiff. It’s juicy and round on the palate, with polished tannins. It delivers way above its price point.” -Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, January 9, 2025

Bodegas Atalaya, Laya Red Blend 2023, D.O. Almansa

We sell this wine like crazy! It's already such a BIG seller and many of our customers comes back for it over and over again. Dena has used this for many weddings that wanted one universal, food friendly red that over delivers. Laya is exactly that wine!

NOSE: Scrumptious, dried fruit (plum, raisin) hearty notes of cranberry draw you in.

PALATE: Lively acidity, dark berry tart, Beet pearls & roasted fennel, dusty tannins, cheesecake brownies, chocolate lava cake, red bean ice cream.

FINISH: Plush, purple velour style. Great food wine to pair with burritos, burgers, blackened chicken, and blackened fish. Truly versatile to pair with Tapas, BBQ & pizza.

We hope you enjoy this wine as much as we do! 

-Yankee Spirits Wine Team

Regular Price: $8.99

March Yellow Dot Price: $7.19 (After Discount)

*Sale Price is on 6 or more bottle purchase

 Wine is packed in a 12 bottle case

*Wine pricing for these wine promotions are held for two weeks after the email offer.

We can hold wines in unpaid reserves for two weeks to allow you time to pick up your wine. If it takes you longer than that to pick up your wines, give us a call, and we can process your wine and move it to paid reserves.

Place your order now with the store contacts above, while you've got all the information at your fingertips.

Cheers!

Yankee Spirits Wine Team

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