Alicante DO Flashcards
1
Q
Describe Monastrell in Alicante DO;
A
- suited to the hot dry climate
- Late ripening, retains acidity
- Drought tolerant
- 75% of plantings in DO
- Generally low density bushvines
1
Q
What are the centres of production in Alicante DO
A
- zone of Vinalpo to the west of DO; stretches from coast to inland vineyard; primarily Monastrell
- North east of region; Marina Alta zone experiences humid breezes, recieves most rain (500mm per annum; Moscatel de Alejandria is the key grape for both dry and sweet wines
2
Q
Describe the wine law of Alicante DO
A
- Alicante DO labelled wine must be at least 80% Monastrell in blend
- Other varieties typically blended; Alicante Bouschet, Garnacha and Bobal
3
Q
Decribe the wines of Alicante DO
A
- General style is full-bodied, dry with high alcohol, high tannin, ripe black fruit
- American oak maturation is common
- Some producers aiming for fresher, medium alcohol wines
- Good to very good, mid-priced some premium examples
4
Q
Decribe Fondillon in the Alicante DO
A
- historic sweet wine in the Alicante DO
- Medium sweet red wine, 40gl of R/S, late harvested Monastrell
- Possible due low rainfall, even in autumn.
- Minimum ABV is 16%, no fortification allowed,
- Minimum 10 years in oak, often matured in traditional 1200L casks
- Can be ‘anada’ (one year) or Solera (which is Typical)
- Generally oxidised in charater with flavours of dried fruit and nuts
