2024 Envinate Taganan Tinto

This Taganan Tinto from Envínate comes from steep, volcanic slopes on the Atlantic coast of Tenerife. Old vines, saline influences, and minimal intervention result in a red wine that is light, energetic, and distinctly pure, with great tension and finesse, and a clear character of its own within the Spanish wine landscape.

Winery

Envínate is the project of four winemakers who met during their oenology studies. Their approach focuses on origin and precision, with minimal intervention in the cellar. They work in multiple regions, but Tenerife is perhaps their most distinctive project. In Taganana, they manage old, often ungrafted vineyards on extremely steep slopes. Everything here is done by hand. You can find more background on the estate in the Winery tab.

Origin and terroir

The vineyards are located in the remote northeast of Tenerife, around the village of Taganana. This area is strongly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, with constant wind, high humidity, and relatively cool conditions. The soils consist of weathered volcanic rock, rich in minerality. The combination of altitude, ocean influence, and poor soils results in low yields and grapes with great tension and natural freshness.

Grapes and vinification

The Taganan Tinto is a field blend of local grapes such as Listán Negro, Negramoll, and other indigenous varieties planted intermingled. Many vines are between 80 and 120 years old and ungrafted, which contributes to complexity and purity. The harvest is done by hand. Fermentation takes place with whole clusters and natural yeasts. The wine then ages in large, used wooden barrels and concrete, ensuring the fruit and terroir remain central. It is barely filtered and only minimally sulfited at bottling.

Style and taste profile

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, light ruby red color. The aroma opens with red berries, cranberry, and wild strawberry, followed by spicy notes and a distinct salty, smoky minerality. On the palate, it is light and precise, with fresh acidity and a fine structure. The tannins are soft yet present. What makes this wine special is the combination of elegance, tension, and an almost salty character that directly points to its seaside origins.

Food and wine pairings

This wine is surprisingly versatile. It pairs well with grilled fish such as tuna or swordfish, but also with poultry, roasted vegetables, or dishes with Mediterranean herbs. Serving it slightly chilled works excellently and emphasizes its fresh character. It also comes into its own with charcuterie or lighter meat dishes.

Why this wine stands out

Taganan Tinto is one of Envínate's most characterful wines. The combination of old, ungrafted vines, volcanic soils, and Atlantic influences produces a wine that is light in color but grand in expression. This is not a powerhouse, but a wine centered on finesse, tension, and drinkability. It is precisely this that makes it so interesting for enthusiasts who look beyond classic styles.

Short summary

Light ruby red wine with aromas of red berries, herbs, and briny minerality. Fresh, energetic, and elegant, with subtle tannins and a long, lively finish. A pure expression of Tenerife with plenty of tension and drinkability.