Castilla La Mancha Flashcards
What is the origin of the name ‘Castilla-La Mancha’?
From the Arabic word ‘Manxa,’ meaning ‘parched earth’
This reflects the region’s arid climate.
Describe the climate of Castilla-La Mancha.
Extreme continental, with hot, dry summers and freezing winters.
What is a notable geographical feature of Castilla-La Mancha?
Located on the Meseta Central, famous for windmills and Manchego cheese.
What is the historical significance of viticulture in Castilla-La Mancha?
A cornerstone of Spanish viticulture with a history dating back centuries.
How has the wine production in Castilla-La Mancha evolved?
Transitioned from bulk wine production to high-quality outputs.
Name the eight DOs in Castilla-La Mancha.
- La Mancha
- Almansa
- Ribera del Júcar
- Manchuela
- Méntrida
- Mondéjar
- Uclés
- Valdepeñas
What are the primary grape varietals in La Mancha DO?
- White: Airén
- Red: Tempranillo (Cencibel) and international varieties.
What is the significance of the marco real system in La Mancha?
Employs head-trained vines spaced 2.5 meters apart to conserve water.
In Almansa DO, what is the primary grape variety for red wines?
Monastrell.
What types of wines are predominantly produced in Almansa DO?
Predominantly red wines, with some barrel-fermented whites.
What is the established history of Ribera del Júcar DO?
Established in the early 2000s from La Mancha’s eastern territories.
What grape varieties are prominent in Manchuela DO?
- Red: Bobal, Garnacha, Monastrell
- White: Macabeo, Sauvignon Blanc.
What historical event contributed to the growth of Valdepeñas DO?
Thrived during the 19th century due to railway links to Madrid.
What grape variety is primarily used in the production of Valdepeñas red wines?
Tempranillo.
What is the dominant grape variety in Méntrida DO?
Garnacha.
What is a unique feature of Uclés DO’s geography?
Vineyards exceeding 1,000 meters in elevation.
What are the aging requirements for Crianza wines?
Minimum 2 years, with 6 months in oak for reds.
What is the minimum alcohol level typically found in wines from Castilla-La Mancha DOs?
10.5–15%, depending on the style and DO.
True or False: Gran Reserva wines require a minimum aging of 5 years.
True.
Fill in the blank: The primary white grape variety in La Mancha is _______.
Airén.
What innovative wine style is produced using dried grapes in Castilla-La Mancha?
Vino Naturalmente Dulce.
What types of soils are predominant in Méntrida DO?
Sandy, granitic soils.
