All about Altos de Luzón 2023

New vintage, same essence: Monastrell at its finest

At Bodegas Luzón, we present the new Altos de Luzón 2023 vintage, a wine that once again brings us face to face with the genuine character of Jumilla, its austere landscape, and the unmistakable personality of the Monastrell variety. With this vintage, we reaffirm our conviction that identity is born from the territory and from a way of understanding viticulture that is committed to each vine and each harvest.

The 2023 vintage is marked by a climatic cycle that, according to our winemaker Vicente Micó, bears great similarities to 2022. However, these similarities hide decisive nuances that have shaped the final profile of this edition. Throughout this article, we will delve into these details, the winemaking process, the tasting, and the international awards that this wine has already received. And, as always, we invite you to learn more about it on our website.

A year of contrasts: that was the 2023 vintage

The 2023 growing cycle unfolded under unique conditions, even within the extreme climate that characterizes our average altitude of 650 meters. The winter was drier than the previous year, while spring brought sharp temperature variations and very low rainfall. This scenario caused the shoots to be weakened at the time of budding, marking a delay of between 15 and 20 days compared to previous seasons.

However, the vineyard once again demonstrated its ability to adapt. The lack of rain and the rise in temperatures during the following weeks compensated for this initial delay, accelerating phenological development. Ultimately, ripening occurred earlier than usual, and we were able to harvest slightly earlier than normal.

The result was a short, intense harvest, with medium-sized grapes, exceptional health, and, above all, outstanding purity and clarity. The acidity was vibrant, bringing remarkable tension to the whole, and the aromas revealed a complexity that already promised a wine of great expressiveness.

In Micó’s words, when comparing the 2023 vintage with 2022, we find a line of continuity, but also a clear difference: in 2023, fresh fruit dominates; in 2022, on the other hand, more mature and compote notes prevailed.

A tribute to the land

Altos de Luzón 2023 preserves the essence that defines this emblematic wine from the winery. Our Monastrell, grown on vines that have been dialoguing with the sun and the dryness of Jumilla for decades, once again shows how the most difficult conditions can become a source of inspiration.

The altitude, extreme climate, and rugged soil are part of a viticultural story that, year after year, translates into wines with deep character, defined texture, and an uncompromising personality.

Winemaking: precision from the very first step

The production process for Altos de Luzón 2023 maintains our commitment to meticulous care and rigorous selection. The grapes are harvested by hand and placed in boxes weighing 10 to 15 kilograms, which arrive at the winery without pressure or damage. Upon arrival, the grapes spend 24 hours in a cold room at 6 °C, a key step in preserving their aromatic integrity.

Each bunch is then checked on a sorting table before being placed in vats. Fermentation takes place over 8 to 10 days at a temperature not exceeding 24–26 °C, and maceration with the skins lasts between 10 and 15 days, allowing the wine to develop structure and complexity without losing its freshness.

The wine completes its process with 12 months of aging in French and American oak barrels, where it acquires the spicy nuances, balance, and depth that characterize this label.

Tasting notes: balance between freshness and complexity

Altos de Luzón 2023 has a deep red color adorned with ruby reflections that hint at its concentration.

On the nose, the wine displays expressive and intense aromas: red and black fruits in harmony, sweet spices, and delicate smoky notes from its barrel aging. The whole is clear and vibrant, offering an aromatic identity that reflects the purity of the vintage.

On the palate, it is frank, fresh, and lively, with a fruity profile that defines its character. It is broad on the palate, with balanced volume and fine tannins that structure the journey. The finish is persistent and elegant, revealing layers of complexity that advance with serenity and order.

This is a unique red wine that reflects the philosophy of the winery and the essence of the Jumilla terroir.

International awards: Decanter and Wine Enthusiast

The new vintage from Altos de Luzón has not only been an internal celebration; it has also received the endorsement of two of the most influential publications in the world of wine.

• • 92 points in Decanter
    

• • 91 points and Best Buy rating in  Wine Enthusiast

Both awards reinforce Altos de Luzón’s position as one of the most outstanding wines in Jumilla and on the international wine scene.

 

What do these scores mean?

Decanter, founded in 1975 in the United Kingdom, is one of the most respected magazines worldwide. Its tasting panels, made up of experts and Masters of Wine, evaluate thousands of wines using a rigorous system. A score of 92 points reflects an outstanding, balanced wine of superior quality.

Wine Enthusiast, a leading publication in the United States, awards scores that directly influence consumers, distributors, and critics in the sector. The Best Buy label identifies wines with exceptional value for money, while 91 points classify a wine as excellent within its category.

We conclude…

Altos de Luzón 2023 represents the continuity of a philosophy and, at the same time, a step forward in the expression of our Monastrell. A vintage marked by climatic challenges that culminates in a fresh, complex wine that is faithful to its origins. International recognition only confirms that the story that begins in our vineyards continues to spread beyond our borders.