At a glance

Producer

Bodegas Olivares

Region

Jumilla, Spain

Grape variety

Monastrell (Mourvèdre) predominant, with Garnacha and Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$8-$15 USD (retail at original release, rare availability now)

Tasting profile

Muted red and black fruit, stewed/plummy notes, dried herbs, earthy finish, tertiary (leather, underbrush) if cellared well

Evolution: Was bright, juicy, and ripe with fresh red fruit when young; now likely rustic, earthy, and more subdued

At peak: Peak was 2014-2016; now primarily of academic or curiosity value

Structure

Acidity

Medium; provided balance for early consumption

Tannins

Low to medium, was soft in youth

Alcohol

13-14% ABV typical

Aging potential

Intended for immediate enjoyment within 2-3 years after vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2014 to 2015

Optimal window

2014 to 2017

Current status

Past peak but may be holding on in cool cellaring; typically meant for early drinking

Current condition

Likely showing tertiary evolution with fading fruit; quality bottles may be earthy and savory if well stored

Olivares Joven is a youthful, fruit-driven wine intended for drinking soon after release. Its tannin and acidity were tailored for early consumption, and with over 10 years of age, its freshness and vibrancy have faded. Well-stored bottles may offer rustic, tertiary notes, but most will be past prime.

Food pairing

Simple tapas, grilled sausages, earthy vegetable stews—aim for rustic, savory food to complement mature structure

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Minimal intervention viticulture, dry-farmed old-vine Monastrell, reduced inputs, use of native yeasts; no new oak; minimal energy needed at winery due to traditional techniques

Bodegas Olivares manages many century-old dry-farmed Monastrell vines, requiring no irrigation (key for water conservation in arid Spain). The ‘Joven’ is vinified simply, in large concrete or stainless, with few inputs. While not certified organic, sustainable practices are the norm, and packaging is modest and lighter weight. As a widely exported value wine, carbon footprint is moderate—lower for local consumption but typical for EU-to-global shipping. Overall, a well-above-average profile for a value producer not seeking formal certifications.