EVODIA is an exciting new project in the Denominacion de Origen Calatayud, hailed as one of Spain’s most progressive and promising wine growing regions. Calatayud is distinguished by its prevalence of high elevation vineyards planted to the Garnacha variety – in fact, the highest in the entire country. The vineyards surrounding the small town of Atea reach upwards of 3000 feet – the highest within the DO.
It is here, in the vineyards of Atea, that Altovinum sources their Garnacha grapes for EVODIA. In addition to the remarkable climate due to elevation, the property is comprised of pure schiste soils, known as pisara in the local area. Aficionados familiar with the wines of the Priorat and the Roussillon are well acquainted to this soil type and its extraordinary influence on the wines.
These vineyards were ferreted out by the amazingly talented team behind Altovinum - Eric Solomon, Jean Marc Lafage and Yolanda Diaz. Yolanda Diaz, a native of Calatayud, has an intimate knowledge of the DO and its terroir – her relationships in the region are an invaluable asset to the project. The winemaking is placed in the capable hands of dynamic enologist, Jean Marc Lafage – a man Robert Parker called “irrepressible.” Jean Marc consults on projects worldwide and owns one of the Roussillon’s visionary wineries, Domaine Lafage. And finally, Eric Solomon, a self appointed Grenache practitioner – through his import company, European Cellars, he represents the finest Grenache producers in the world including the Chateauneuf-du-Papes from Domaine de la Janasse and Domain du Marcoux as well as in the Priorat, including Clos Erasmus (which he co-owns with his wife, Daphne Glorian). These wines have achieved the loftiest of accolades including perfect scores (100 points) from Robert Parker. - Winery
Another project between Eric Solomon and the Roussillon’s Jean-Marc Lafage, the 2016 Evodia comes from higher elevation vineyards and is mostly Garnacha (there’s 5% Syrah) aged in a mix of tank and demi-muids. This deep ruby/purple colored is a gorgeous, naked expression of Grenache that just knocks it out of the park. Blackberries, blueberries, pepper, licorice and hints of asphalt all emerge from this plump, sexy, opulent, and shockingly concentrated wine that has incredible charm and character. It’s the best 10-dollar bottle of wine I’ve tasted in years. - Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points
This fresh red offers snappy black cherry and red plum flavors, with leafy and black olive notes, focused and lively. Crisp acidity and light tannins provide a light but energetic structure. Drink now through 2024. 50,000 cases imported. -TM. - Wine Spectator Magazine 88 Points
