![]() ![]() The quality requirements for a Vino de Pago correspond to those for a DOCa wine, and wine estates that are classified as Vino de Pago are subject to separate requirements rather than those of the wine region where they are located. The Vino de Pago classification was introduced in 2003 by a decision in the Cortes Generales, the Spanish parliament, to help further improve the quality of Spanish wine. ![]() Vino de Pago is a classification for Spanish wine applied to individual vineyards or wine estates, unlike the Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) or Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) which is applied to an entire wine region. The designation is considered a promising one.Classification for Spanish wine applied to individual vineyards or wine estates The powerful reds of Almansa have been growing in reputation since the creation of the DO and are now exported to more than 25 countries. The authorized white varieties are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdejo and Moscatel de Grano Menudo (Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains). Other important varieties include Cencibel ( Tempranillo), Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Because of their rich color, these wines have been popular as blending agents, although they are now being appreciated for their individual qualities. Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) is also widely grown, and produces deep-colored wines with plenty of dark-fruit characters. ![]() The dominant grape variety in Almansa is the regional specialty Monastrell (Mourvedre). ![]() The traditional Spanish classification terms are also used here to denote ageing and style: Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva, Añejo, Noble, Superior, Viejo (old) and Rancio (wines aged oxidatively or in sunlight). Overall, these conditions favor the production of red wine, which dominates wine production although, according to the local Consejo Regulador (local governing body), both white and rosé wines are produced. This altitude somewhat mitigates the heat and lengthy sunshine hours. Most vineyards are planted on largely flat terrain around 750m (2,460ft) above sea level. With less than 350mm (14 inches) of rain falling each year, this is essential. The soils are generally poor and stony, with a healthy lime component, which critically retains water effectively. The slight influence of the sea does, however, lessen the harsh conditions more than in other parts of Castilla-La Mancha. The dry, hot and arid conditions of the vast central Iberian plateau also prevail in Almansa, and the overall climate can be considered to be extreme.ĭespite its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, the climate is strongly continental, with high temperatures throughout the growing season. Viticulture has taken place here continuously since the 16th Century. The region is geographically and stylistically close to neighboring Valencia and Murcia, bordering Jumilla and Yecla in the south and Alicante in the east. The designation draws its name from the largest town in the area, known for its imposing 14th-Century castle, the Castillo de Almansa - one of the last to be built during the Reconquista (the Christian "reconquest" of the Iberian peninsula). In the Middle Ages, it was located in the frontier territory between the Moorish and Christian kingdoms of Aragon and Castilla.Īlmansa was awarded DO status in 1966. Almansa is the easternmost wine region (and one of the smallest) in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. ![]()
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