Tasting - Bodegas Atalaya Laya

Name: Bodegas Atalaya, Laya

Variety: 70% Garnacha Tintorera, 30% Monastrell
Region: Almansa 
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Shop Review: "A blend of 70% Garnacha Tintorera, aka Alicante Bouschet, and 30% Monastrell; fermented in stainless steel, followed by four months in French oak. Bright purple. Cassis, blueberry, pungent herbs and mocha on the nose. Smooth and open-knit on the palate, displaying fresh cherry and dark berry qualities and a hint of black pepper. Finishes with gripping tannins and good length, leaving a subtle floral note behind." 
-Vintage Cellar, Blacksburg 

My Review: The nose on this wine gave away berries from the first encounter; a bit of smoke could be detected as well. Strong front palate with intense smoke taste. Friend Caitlin pointed out a bit of oak flavor. Difficult to detect berries in the taste, even though they were so present in the nose. 

Tasted without food.