Envínate's Albahra 2023

Envínate, translating to "wine yourself," is a collaborative project founded in 2005 by four friends—Roberto Santana, Alfonso Torrente, Laura Ramos, and José Martínez—who met while studying enology at the University of Miguel Hernández in Alicante, Spain. Their shared vision is to produce authentic wines that express the unique terroirs of Spain's Atlantic-influenced regions.

The team revitalizes ancient vineyards such as Ribeira Sacra in Galicia, the Canary Islands, and Almansa in Castilla-La Mancha. They employ traditional farming methods, avoid chemical treatments, and emphasize minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Grapes are hand-harvested, foot-trodden, and fermented with wild yeasts, often incorporating whole clusters. Aging occurs in old barrels and concrete tanks, with minimal sulfur added only when necessary.

Envínate's portfolio includes distinctive wines such as "Lousas" from Ribeira Sacra, "Táganan" and "Benje" from Tenerife, and "Albahra" from Almansa. Each wine reflects its origin's unique characteristics, showcasing the diversity of Spain's viticultural landscapes. Their commitment to authenticity and terroir-driven expressions has positioned Envínate as a leading force in Spain's natural wine movement, garnering acclaim for producing some of the country's most compelling and elegant wines.

The Castilla-La Mancha wine region in central Spain is one of Europe's largest and most diverse wine-producing areas. Known for its vast vineyard expanse, the region covers a significant part of central Spain, surrounding the cities of Toledo, Ciudad Real, Cuenca, and Albacete. This area is characterized by a continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, generally favorable conditions for viticulture.

The predominant grape varieties in Castilla-La Mancha include Tempranillo, locally known as Cencibel, along with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. White wine production also thrives, with Airén being the most planted grape, covering vast tracts of the region. This grape is often used for still white wines and as a base for brandy production.

Castilla-La Mancha is divided into several Denominaciones de Origen (DOs), including La Mancha, the largest and perhaps the most recognized. Other notable DOs include Valdepeñas, known for quality red wines, and Manchuela, which has gained attention for its Bobal and Malbec varieties.

This region is traditionally known for producing high-volume, value-oriented wines. However, there has been a shift towards quality and innovation in recent years, with increased attention to limited production, high-quality wines, and sustainable viticultural practices. Modern winemaking techniques and careful vineyard management have led to a rise in the region's reputation, showcasing the potential of its terroir and grape varieties.