Spain Flashcards
Spain
Spain
Brief history of wine in Spain
Evidence over 5 thousand years
- Phoenicians, Romans
Exports and colonies in America (fortified wines)
18th century Manuel Quinano y Quintano
- experience from Bordeaux and barriques
- no price difference between wines in Rioja
Luciano de Murrieta, Marques de Murrieta, Marques de Riscal
- exile in Bordeaux during civil war 19th century
- new techniques brought back
Phylloxera in France
- Rioja exporting wines to France
- Phylloxera hit Spain as well in late stage
Loss of colonies (export markets)
1926 Rioja - first regulations
Economy devastation
- civil war 1936-1939
- economic isolation of Franco’s government
- cooperatives, bulk wine
Miguel Torres
- French and German varieties, trellising
- temperature control, laboratories established
1996 - legalization of irrigation
- raise of production levels
New styles and regions are being explored
- also revitalizing indigenous varieties
- return to abandoned vineyards
Irrigation in Spain
permitted in 1996
still regulated by regions (Consejo Regulador)
- in some only to establish young vines
- not permitted during ripening period
Historically important Spanish winemakers
18th century Manuel Quinano y Quintano
- experience from Bordeaux and barriques
- no price difference between wines in Rioja
Luciano de Murrieta, Marques de Murrieta, Marques de Riscal
- exile in Bordeaux during civil war 19th century
- new techniques brought back
Miguel Torres (20th century)
- French and German varieties, trellising
- temperature control, laboratories established
Phylloxera in Spain
came in very late stage when remedies were known
- Spain supplied wine to Phylloxera hit France beforehand
Many regions were unaffected thanks to sandy soils
- Toro, Rueda
Spain climate
Generally warm, can vary markedly
- extensive coastline, mountains, plateau
Low annual rainfall (as little as 300mm)
North west
- influenced by Atlantic - maritime
- high rainfall level
North, North-east
- sheltered from Atlantic by mountains
- continental with maritime or mediterranean influence
South and east
- moderated mediterranean climate
Meseta plateau (central Spain)
- continental
- 600-900m moderates the heat
Spain vineyard management
Many old bush vines planted at low density
- low annual rainfall (as little as 300mm)
- naturally low yields
- irrigation is permitted (regulated by regions)
Heavy storms with temperatures raising quickly afterwards
- risk of mildew
- in some regions frost is problem (continental)
Phylloxera 20th century
- resistant rootstocks
- Toro, Rueda unaffected (sand)
Significant produers farming organic (few certified)
- not believing in raising cost by certification
Average very small vineyard holdings (66% 0.5ha)
- limited mechanization
Name of large raised plateau in central Spain
Meseta
- 600-900m moderates the heat
Size of vineyards plantings (world’s rating)
World’s largest vineyard plantings 967,000ha
- but only 3rd largest wine producer (Italy, France)
Many bush vines and low density
Grape varieties
Airen
Tempranillo
Bobal
Garnacha
Macabeo
Monastrell
relatively evenly spread between white and red
Airén
Central Spain - Castilla-La Mancha
Inexpensive neutral white wines
Much used for destillation of Brandy de Jerez
Tempranillo
Various synonyms
Various quality levels
- best from Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Toro
Medium to high yields
- quality focused growers reduce yields
Early ripenig
- best in warm regions with some cooling influence
Bobal
Mainly east coast red and rose wines
Garnacha Tinta
Grenache
Red and rose (central and north-east mainly)
Macabeo
Mainly Catalunya
- both still and Cava
Main white variety in Rioja (called Viura)
Many inexpensive but also premium examples
- ferment and aged in oak
Monastrell
Mourvedre
Predominantly Valencia and Murcia
- well suited to Mediterranean climate
- needs heat late in season - late ripening
Synonym for Alicante Bouschet in Spain
Garnacha Tintorera
Synonym for Garnacha Tintorera
Alicante Bouschet
Synonym for Macabeo in Rioja
Viura
Synonym for Viura
Macabeo
Synonym for Monastrell
Mourvedre
What is Mourvedre called in Spain
Monastrell
Winemaking for youthful fruity red white and rose
Made protectively
Stainless steel with temp control
Inert gases
Cultured yeast
Fining and/or filtration
Many undergo carbonic or semi-carbonic maceration
Winemaking in Spain
Temperature control
- some use concrete, eggs, amphorae
Oak maturation very common for reds (mid price and above)
- American oak common (raising French oak)
White winemaking
Temperature control
- some use concrete, eggs, amphorae
Unoaked but also fermented and/or aged in wood
- unoaked whites may be aged on lees.
General ageing rules of wines in Spain
National ageing legislation specifies the minimum times of ageing in oak for Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva
- individual DOs may be stricter
- criticised for being too prescriptive but also not enough
- no quality requirements set for these categories
- age and origin of oak not specified
- very little indication of style or value
The oak vessel MUST be of a maximum 330 litres
Many producers don’t use these labelling terms
- larger barrels
- not meeting minimum time
- no believe in the system
Mostly used in Rioja or RIbera del Duero
Criticism of ageing requirements in Spain
- too prescriptive but also not enough
- no quality requirements set for these categories
- age and origin of oak not specified
- very little indication of style or value
Many producers don’t use these labelling terms
- larger barrels
- not meeting minimum time
- no believe in the system
Maximum size of barrel for ageing of Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva
330 litres
Where are Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva labelling terms mostly used?
Rioja
Ribera del Duero
Roble
Labelling term for oak
Joven
Term for wines released young
- often minimum oak
Labelling term for oak
Roble
Term for wines which are released young
Joven
Oak of choice
American
- strong trading relationship with America
- relatively cheap compared to French oak
Use of French oak has grown
- Penedes, Priorat, Ribera del Duero
Also blending both
Rose winemaking
much is inexpensive and sold in bulk
Better understanding of viti and harvesting times, improvements in vini and focus on market trends
Leading away from over-ripe jammy wines
Classically deep colour (pale colours increased in recent years)
- longer skin contact
- mainly steel
- bottled soon after ferment
- may be matured and stored in oak on lees
Minimum ageing for Crianza
Red
- total 24 months
- 6 months in barrel
White and rose
- total 18 months
- 6 months in barrel
Minimum ageing for Reserva
Red
- total 36 months
- 12 months in barrel
White and rose
- total 24 months
- 6 months in barrel
Minimum ageing for Gran Reserva
Red
- total 60 months
- 18 months in barrel
White and rose
- total 48 months
- 6 months in barrel
Wine law and regulations
Labelling terms
PDO and PGI system as part of EU
DO and DOCa/DOQ (denominación de origen)
- 70 DO
- Rioja and Priorat are the only DOCa/DOQ
(denominación de origen calificada)
VP (Vino de Pago)
- small numbers of single estates with high reputations
- estates may use only their grapes, vinified and matured on their estate
- within PDO
VT (Vino de la Tierra)
- PGI wines (around 40 VTs)
Vino
- without geographical indication
Set and controlled by Consejo Regulador
- max yields
- permitted varieties
- vineyard practises (irrigation)
- winemaking practises (ageing)
- bottling requirements
Requirements to apply for DOQ/DOCa status
DO must have been established for a min of 10 years
All wines must be bottled at producer’s property
Various quality regulations
- including tasting assessment by external panel
Difference between Vino de Pago and Grandes Pagos de Espana
VP (Vino de Pago)
- small numbers of single estates with high reputations
- estates may use only their grapes, vinified and matured on their estate
- within PDO
Grandes Pagos de Espana
- association of prestigious estates
- only some are qualified to label as ‘Vino de Pago’
Who regulates wine law in each denomination?
what can be regulated?
Consejo Regulador
- max yields
- permitted varieties
- vineyard practises (irrigation)
- winemaking practises (ageing)
- bottling requirements
Wine business in Spain general
Many producers with tiny landholdings
- dominated by cooperatives
- negociants also common
- Wine estates produce small volumes
Large businesses
- J Garcia Carrion
- Felix Solis Avantis
- Perdon Ricard Groupe
- Miguel Torres SA
- Bodegas Martin Codas SA
Low domestic consumption - 20l per capita
- trend toward higher quality with DO status
World’s largest exporter in terms of volume
- average price per litre is the lowest of large exporters (half of Italy, fifth of France)
- world’s largest producer of bulk wine (55% of export)
Handful of super premium wines
- not a large investment market
Main export
- France, Germany, UK, China, USA
Proportion of bulk wine
55% of export
World’s largest bulk wine producer
Promotional body of Spanish wine
Foods and Wines from Spain
Export of Spanish wine
World’s largest exporter in terms of volume
- average price per litre is the lowest of large exporters (half of Italy, fifth of France)
- world’s largest producer of bulk wine (55% of export)
Main export
- France, Germany, UK, China, USA
Wine DOs in Galicia
Rías Baixas DO
Ribeiro DO
Ribeira Sacra DO
Valdeorras DO
Monterrei DO
Rías Baixas DO climate
Strong maritime climate
- high annual rainfall (1,700mm)
- problem of fungal diseases and rain before harvest
- significant vintage variation
Soil:
- sand over granite (free-draining)
Rías Baixas DO grape varieties
Albarino (95%)
Loureira
Treixadura
Caino Blanco
Souson (black)
Caino Tinto (black)
Rías Baixas DO topography
Soil:
- sand over granite (free-draining)
Close to the Atlantic
Rías Baixas DO subzones
5 sub-zones
Val do Salnes
- coolest and wettest - high acidity
O Rosal
- along river Mino on border with Portugal (Vinho Verde)
- often blends Albarino, Loureira and Treixadura
Condado do Tea
- warmer, riper style, more peach, lower acidity
Ribeira do Ulla
- inexpensive wines
Soutomaior
- smallest
Rías Baixas DO producers
Cooperative Bodegas Martin Codax
Pazo de Senorans
Palacio de Fefinanes
Rías Baixas DO general
In Galicia
Replanted with Palomino after Phylloxera
Significant improvements in quality - quick raise of popularity
Albarino
mostly in Rias Baixas
Well suited to damp climate (thick skins - less prone to rot)
Early to mid-ripening
High in acidity, medium- (medium) body, medium alcohol, aroma of apple, lemon, grapefruit, peach sometimes floral
Usuallly made as single varietal
Sometimes blended with Loureira, Treixadura, Caino Blanco
Loureira
occasional blending partner for Albarino
early ripening, medium+ acidity, citrus, pear, floral, herbal notes
Trellising in Rias Baixas
Pergola (parral) remains popular
- trained high to promote circulations under canopy
Now common VSP for mechanization
Winemaking in Rias Baixas
Generally protective
- few hours of skin maceration
- cool ferment in steel
- may have malo in cool years
- often stored on lees
- few premium producers store in oak
Spanish term for sur lie
sobre lias
Ribeiro DO
In Galicia
Maritime climate (more sheltered than Rias Biaxas)
High rainfall
Mainly white wines
- most planted - Treixadura (often oak aged)
Ribeira Sacra DO
In Galicia
Mainly continental climate with maritime influence
Vineyads on stony slopes with good drainage and reflecting heat
- extremely labour intensive
Mencia most planted variety (only red donimated region in Galicia)
Valdeorras DO
In Galicia
Continental climate with plenty of rainfall (700-1000mm)
- vineyards in altitude 300m
Quality focused production of Godello
(citrus, stone fruit, herbal, wet stone, med+ acidity)
- often fermented and/or aged in oak
Monterrei DO
Wine region in Galicia
Continental climate
- sheltered from ocean by Sierra de Larouca mountains
- south of Ribeira Sacra
- relatively low rainfall
- Mencia and Godello
Mostly inexpensive bulk wine
Castilla y Leon climate
Continental with maritime influence in in west
Made up of high altitude plateau - meseta and mountains to the north and south
Castilla y Leon wine regions
Bierzo DO
Toro DO
Ribera del Duero DO
Rueda DO
Castilla y Leon VT
Bierzo DO climate and varieties
+ requirements for red wines
Recent lift of quality by Ricardo Perez and Alvaro Palacios in 1990s
Continental climate with occasional maritime influence
- adequate rainfall
- marked vintage variation (wet x dry years)
Dominated by Mencia (75%) and some Godello
Min 70% of Mencia in any red wine blend
- can be blended with Alicante Bouschet
- only 2% of Alicante planted in Bierzo, so mostly 100% Mencia wines
- sometimes carbonic
Mencia
Early to mid-ripening
Can loose acidity fast as sugar accumulates (high alcohol if picked late)
Ranges from light bodied to concentrated wines with higher tannin
Med to med+ body and tannins, Ripe red cherry and plum, sometimes floral or herbal note
Often matured in oak
Med+ to high acidity
Bierzo DO soils, topography and classification of vineyards
flat plains
- fertile silty loam soils
Best vineyards on hillsides
- 500-850m
- good drainage
- poor slate soils limiting vigour
- cooling influence - high diurnal range
Toro DO
Climate
Viticulture
Requirements for wines
Typical expression
part of Castilla y Leon region
- Duero River
Continental climate
- altitude 620-750m
- large diurnal range
- frost can be problem
- low rainfall (irrigation not allowed from June)
Viticulture
- low density (max 2700 vines per ha allowed)
- low number of bunces
- mainly bush vines
- ungrafted vines (sandy soils)
Red wines must be min 75% Tinta de Toro
- remaining Garnacha
- max 15% alcohol
- Often aged in oak with proportion of new
Rose (Tinta de Toro or Garnacha)
White
- Malvasia or Verdejo
Synonym for Tempranillo in Toro
Tinta de Toro
but with thicker skins
- greater colour and tannin
Toro DO climate
Continental climate
- altitude 620-750m
- large diurnal range
- frost can be problem
- low rainfall (irrigation not allowed from June)
Toro DO viticulture
Viticulture
- low density (max 2700 vines per ha allowed)
- low number of bunces
- mainly bush vines
- ungrafted vines (sandy soils)
Toro DO red wine typical expression
deep colour, full body, often high alcohol with high tannins
Ripe blackberry and blueberry
medium+ to high acidity
Often aged in oak with proportion of new
Producers in Toro
Teso La Monja
Numanthia
First winery established in Ribera del Duero
Vega Sicilia in late 19th century
Raise and history of Ribera del Duero
First established winery - Vega Sicilia in late 19th century
Aleandro Fernandez - Pesquera winery
- with international acclaim
Close proximity to Madrid
Investment from other regions (Catalunya and Rioja)
Rapid expansion of vineyad area
Ribera del Duero DO
climate
Part of Castilla y Leon
on upper valley of River Duero
Continental climate
- low rainfall (400-600mm)
- irrigation can be used before ripening period
- high altitudes (700-1000m)
- frost problem
What is Tempranillo called in Ribera del Duero?
Tinta Fino or Tinta del Pais
Ribera del Duero DO grape varieties
Predominantly Tempranillo
- here Tinta Fino or Tinta del Pais
- many bush vines (new vines trellised)
Small vineyad holdings
Ribera del Duero DO requirements
and style
producers
Red and rose only
Min 75% Tempranillo
- with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Garnacha and Albillo (white)
French oak is popular
- new oak is common
Ageing categories (Crianza, Reserva) commonly used
Full body, high alcohol, ripe flavours, blackberry, plum vanilla, chocolate
tend to be good to outstanding
- Vega Sicilia, Aalto, Dominio de Pingus
Rueda
climate
grapes
winemaking
producers
Part of Castilla y Leon
Dominated by white wines
- used to produce oxidative styles
- Marques de Riscal - protective styles
Continental climate
- low rainfall
- high altitudes (700-800m)
- frost problem
- sandy stony free draining, low nutrient soils
Verdejo mainly
some Sauvignon Blanc
- min 85% of named variety
- old bush vines
Quality wine winemaking
- lees ageing with regular stirring
- fermented and/or matured in oak
- malo generally avoided
Ossian, Bodega Belondrade y Lurton
Significant proportion of wineries are owned by companies based in Rioja or Ribera del Duero (as a white wine in their portfolio)
Verdejo
Relatively drought tolerant
Med to med+ acidity, med alcohol, apple, pear and peach, often herbal note (fennel) and slight bitterness on finish
Typically grown in Rueda
Castilla y Leon VT
northern part of meseta
- protected from any Atlantic influence by mountains
- continental climate
Large number of local and international varieties permitted
PGI permits producers outside DO boundaries to produce wine with a geographical indication
Rioja DOCa
topography and climate and soils
along river Ebro
- eastern side gets Mediterranean influence throught the river
- tribunaries provide several aspects and soils
Sierra de Cantabria to the north (protection from Atlantic)
Sierra de la Demanda to the south (protection from warmer centre of Spain)
3 zones (can appear on labels)
Rioja Alta
- continental with maritime influence
- relatively low altitude, warm, alluvial soils
- north west cooler and wetter - calcareous clay
- south 700m cool and wet, ferrous clay
Rioja Alavesa
- relatively cool and wet
- up to 700m calcareous clay
Rioja Oriental
- Northern part - low altitude, warmest, driest
- south 500-1000, cool
- calcareous and ferrous clay
Vintage variation (various influence of mediterranean and maritime)
old bush vines but also trellised vineyads
drought problems
3 zones in Rioja and their differences
Rioja Alta
- continental with maritime influence
- relatively low altitude, warm, alluvial soils
- north west cooler and wetter - calcareous clay
- south 700m cool and wet, ferrous clay
Rioja Alavesa
- relatively cool and wet
- up to 700m calcareous clay
Rioja Oriental
- Northern part - low altitude, warmest, driest
- south 500-1000, cool
- calcareous and ferrous clay
Varieties in Rioja
Black varieties (91%)
Tempranillo (88% of black varieties)
Garnacha
Graciano
Mazuelo
Maturana Tinta
Cabernet Sauvignon
Viura
Tempranillo Blanco
Malvasia
Garnacha Blanca
Verdejo
Sauvignon Blanc
Tempranillo in Rioja
reliably produces higher yields
- legalization of irrigation
- replanted after Garnacha
Better suited to Rioja Alta and Alavesa to ripen in cool high altitude sites with clay
Where is Garnacha grown in Rioja
mostly Rioja Oriental
- warm, dry conditions
Graciano
late ripening, drought resistant
small yields
susceptible to fungal diseases
high acidity and tannin
fresh black fruit flavours to Rioja blends
Mazuelo
Spanish name for Carignan (also Carinena)
used for its high acidity in blends
Maturana Tinta
Spanish name for Trousseau
deep purple colour, high acidity, fresh cranberry, blackberry
Viura
also Macabeo
late budding late ripening
susceptible to botrytis, best suited to dry, warm sites
Relatively neutral
Tempranillo Blanco
mutation of Tempranillo used in Rioja blends
high acidity, lemon, grapefruit, pineapple
second most planted white variety in Rioja
Rioja red winemaking
Blend of varieties
Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva labelling used with min requirements for ageing
- only 225l barriques can be used
2 contrasting styles:
- low yields, concentrated, French oak
- vinos de autor
- American oak, long ageing
- coconut, cured meat
both still do exist but now there is a compromise somewhere in the middle:
Highlighting characteristics and quality of grapes
selection of harvest dates often earlier
- more gentle extraction
- older and/or larger oak (or concrete, amphorae)
- shorter maturation
- french oak now more common than american
- blending parcels from different parts of Rioja
Single vineyard wines can be also made
vinos de autor
oldfashioned style of Rioja from very low yields of concentrated wines aged in French oak without falling into Reserva labelling
Contrasting styles of Rioja from the past
low yields, concentrated, French oak
vinos de autor
American oak, long ageing
coconut, cured meat
both still do exist but now there is a compromise somewhere in the middle
Rioja white winemaking
Inexpensive unoaked style
Premium
- tend to be oaked
- sometimes oxidative (traditional)
med+ body, med+ acidity, citrus, smoky, nutty aroma
Traditional oxidative style producers
- Castillo Ygay
- Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva
- dried fruits, honey, nuts, high acidity
Rioja wine regulations
New regulations approved in 2017
Vino de Zona
- All grapes from named zone
(15% can be from outside the zone, if vineyard borders the zone and grapes have been sourced for 10 consecutive years)
- vinified, aged, bottled within zone
- label can indicate the zone
Vino de Municipio
- all grapes from named municipality
(15% can be from outside the municipality, if vineyard borders the municipality and grapes have been sourced for 10 consecutive years)
- vinified, aged, bottled within municipality
- label can indicate the municipality (and also zone)
Vinedo Singular (single vineyad)
- all grapes from named vineyard
- Vinification, ageing, storage and bottling within same winery
- producer must own vineyard for 10 consecutive years
- min 35 years old
- max yield must be respected
- must be hand harvested and treated in sustainable way
- restrictions on pruning during growing season
- checks on traceability
- must be authorised by tasting panel
- may indicate municipality and zone as well
Ageing must be done in 225l barriques
Crianza / Reserva / Gran Reserva categories
Spanish name for single vineyad and its regulations
Vinedo Singular
- all grapes from named vineyard
- Vinification, ageing, storage and bottling within same winery
- producer must own vineyard for 10 consecutive years
- min 35 years old
- max yield must be respected
- must be hand harvested and treated in sustainable way
- restrictions on pruning during growing season
- checks on traceability
- must be authorised by tasting panel
- may indicate municipality and zone as well
Rioja wine business
Consists of small vineyards (most below 1ha)
- cooperatives have strong position
- many producers are also merchants
Sales are slowly increasing
40% export - UK, Germany, USA
Crianza is popular in Spain
Average price of Rioja is higher than other Spanish DOs
- but still below prices of France and Italy
Relatively small investment market
Marketed as value for money and diverse wine
Producers initiative to promote
- Bodegas Familiares de Rioja (40 producers)
- Rioja ‘n’ Roll
Navarra DO climate
many climatic influences
- Atlantic
- Mediterranean
- Pyrenees
5 sub-zones
Baja Montaña (hilly north)
- cooler, wetter (Atlantic + Pyrenees influence)
Valdizarbe and Tierra Estella (east to west)
- cooler, wetter (Atlantic + Pyrenees influence)
Ribera Alta (middle) and Ribera Baja (south)
- warmer, drier, flatter
Grape varieties in Navarra DO
wide range
Garnacha
Tempranillo
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Chardonnay
+Moscatel de Grano Menudo, Sauvignon Blanc, Viura and Malvasia
Navarra wine styles
Tempranillo often single varietal
Cabernet and Merlot usually blended with Tempranillo and sometimes Garnacha
Light to concentrated wines (aged for one year +)
- French oak for Cabernet
- American for Tempranillo
Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva often used
Chardonnay both oaked and unoaked
Significant amount of rose from Garnacha
- sometimes blended with Cabernet, Tempranillo
- must be made by short maceration
- direct pressing NOT PERMITTED
- some ferment/age in barrels
Spanish synonym for Muscat a Petits Grains
Moscatel de Grano Menudo
Producers in Navarra
Domaines Lupier
Bodegas J. Chivite
Small vineyad holdings in general
Wine regions in Aragon
Carinena DO
Campo de Borja DO
Calatayud DO
Somontano DO
Carinena DO
Campo de Borja DO
Calatayud DO
climate and wine styles
warm continental climate
- annual rainfall 450-500mm
- high diurnal range from altitude (400-900m)
- cold winds (cierzo) from north - slower ripening
- rocky free draining soils
Mainly red
- a lot of old vine Garnacha
- mainly cooperatives
- a lot of high volume inexpensive wines
Name of cold wind in Aragon
Cierzo
Somontano DO
region in Aragon
At foot of the Pyrenees - warm continental climate
- 350-650m - large diurnal range
- cold breezes from Pyrenees
Wide range of varieties
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay most planted
- Gewurztraminer
mid priced wines, competition from other better known regions
Wine regions in Catalunya
Catalunya DO
Penedes DO
Priorat DOQ
Montsant DO
Costers del Segre DO
Catalunya DO
applies to grapes grown anywhere in Catalunya
mainly for inexpensive wines
allows more freedom of varieties and where grapes can be grown.
Penedes DO
climate
Various styles including Cava
Warm mediterranean climate
- split into 3 climatic sub-zones
Penedes Maritim
- between sea and coastal ranges
- low altitude
- warm climate without temperature extremes
- full bodied red wines from late ripening varieties
- grapes for Cava
Penedes Central
- relatively flat plains (Pre-Coastal Depression)
- between coastal range and inland mountains
- moderately high altitude (up to 500m)
- cooling influence
- Large plantings of cava grapes and Merlot, Cabernet, Tempranillo and Chardonnay
Penedes Superior
- inland mountains 500-800m
- cooling influence - spring frost
- cool conditions - Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir
- rainfalll around 500mm - irrigation used
- loam with calcareous deposit - water holding capacity
- bush vines and trellising with mechanization
Grape varieties in Penedes DO
80% white
- Xerel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada
- Chardonnay
(Moscatel, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Riesling)
- Merlot
(Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Syrah)
Penedes Maritim
- between sea and coastal ranges
- low altitude
- warm climate without temperature extremes
- full bodied red wines from late ripening varieties
- grapes for Cava
Penedes Central
- relatively flat plains (Pre-Coastal Depression)
- between coastal range and inland mountains
- moderately high altitude (up to 500m)
- cooling influence
- Large plantings of cava grapes and Merlot, Cabernet, Tempranillo and Chardonnay
Penedes Superior
- inland mountains 500-800m
- cooling influence - spring frost
- cool conditions - Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir
- rainfalll around 500mm - irrigation used
- loam with calcareous deposit - water holding capacity
- bush vines and trellising with mechanization
Development of Penedes
One of first Spanish regions to modernize
- Miquel Torres
- temperature control
Styles of wine in Penedes
wide range of varieties and styles including Cava
Inexpensive fruit driven wines
More expensive red wines and some Chardonnay are often matured in oak, usually French
Penedes wine sales
30% exported - Germany, Canada, Switzerland, China, USA
Domestic sales 90% sold in Catalunya
- nearby Barcelona
Priorat DOQ winemaking history
Carthusian monks planting vineyads in 12th century
Lack of easy access and challenging topography, extremes of weather made viticulture difficult
- most vineyads very abandoned after Phylloxera
1989 Rene Barbier
- formed small group of viticulturist
- using French inspired techniques
- blending Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah with Garnacha and Carinena
- critical acclaim - wines sold for super premium prices
- Clos Mogador, Clos Dofi, Clos de L’Obac, Clos Martinet, Clos Erasmus
Followed by fast increase in plantings
Promotion to DOQ in 2009
5 prestige ‘clos’ of Priorat
Clos Mogador
Clos Dofi
Clos de L’Obac
Clos Martinet
Clos Erasmus
Priorat
climate
viticulture
challenges and hazards
Warm continental climate
- protected from cold winds by Serra de Montsant in north and from Mediterranean by Serra de Llaberia to the south
- high diurnal range
- spring frost can be problem
- rainfall 500-600mm typically falling in heavy storms in the winter and spring
- summers are very dry - irrigation permitted in driest years and to establish new vineyard
River Siurana
- range of altitudes 100-750m
- range of aspects
- extremely rugged topography
Vineyards on slopes (known as costers)
- ranging between 5 and 60% gradient
- narrow terraces (water run-off reduced)
- erosion
- everything done by hand
- number of old bush vines
Priorat soils
Poor and stony with outcrops of clay
Slate based soils - Llicorella
- thin, rocky
- lacking nutrients
- particles of mica reflecting light and heat back
- vines can grow deep roots to search for limited water
- low yields per vine (as low as 5-6 hl/ha)
maximum yield in Priorat
39 hl/ha
rarely achieved
- low densities
- old vines
- low nutrients
- low water
sometimes as low as 5-6 hl/ha
Priorat grape varieties
Traditional Garnacha and Carinena
- Carinena grown on warmest sites
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
White (only 6%) - Garnacha Blanca, Macabeo
Winemaking in Priorat
and typical expression of red Priorat
very traditional (basket press, large oak) to modern (stainless, optical sorting)
Cultured yeast often used (due to high potential alcohol)
Typically fermented in oak (often French)
- usually 1 - 2 years
Quality focused winemakers usually aim for freshness and acidity
High alcohol (14.5%) is balanced by concentrated ripe but not jammy fruit, medium + acidity
Classifications (4) in Priorat
Vi de Vila
- grapes from one of 12 sub-zones
- name of sub-zone + Vi de Vila
Vi de Paratge
- grapes from single paratge (named site - lieu dit)
- 459 paratges noted for their geology and microclimate
- covers whole Priorat
Vinya Classificada
- single vineyard within Paratje (equivalent to Cru)
Gran Vinya Classificada
- single vineyard of exceptional merit within Paratje
- equivalent to Grand Cru
To qualify for any classification producer must:
- own the vineyard or rent it for min 7 years
- each classification has own rules about % of blend, vine age and max yield.
- ‘old vines’ classified term min 75 years
General rules for classification of wine in Priorat
To qualify for any classification producer must:
- own the vineyard or rent it for min 7 years
- each classification has own rules about % of blend, vine age and max yield.
- ‘old vines’ classified term min 75 years
Montsant DO
climate
soils
viticulture
grape varieties and styles
producers
Wine region in Catalunya
forms a complete ring around Priorat
- flat land around river Ebro
- more mediterranean influence than Priorat
- temperatures are not so exptreme
- few more mountainous places with cooler temp
Mostly clay based sandy soils, patches of llicorella
- slightly more fertile than Priorat (higher yields)
Overall less extreme topography
- some terraced vineyards
- trellised vineyards relatively common
- some bush vines
Dominated by Garnacha and Carinena + Tempranillo (unlike Priorat)
+ Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
- more single varietal Carinena and Garnacha
- usually 1-2 years of maturation in American or French oak
Producers: Espectacle and Celler de Capcanes
Majority produced by cooperatives
Number of Priorat producers own vineyards here as land is cheaper and less expensive to work
Costers del Segre DO
wine region in Catalunya
Relatively far from sea - continental climate
- low average rainfall (400mm)
Saline soils were improved by irrigation
200-700m, cooler sites are used for Cava
- free draining, sandy soils
- irrigation needed in most vineyards
Wide range of international and local varieties
- Macabeo, Parellada, Xerel-lo
- Chardonnay, Garnacha Blanca, Sauvignon Blanc
- Garnacha, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Generally fresh and fruity style
Raimat owns 1/3 of land (who helped to establish the region)
Other: Castel d’Encus
Wine regions in Valencia and Murcia
Valencia
- Valencia DO
- Utiel-Requena DO
- Alicante DO
Murcia
- Jumilla DO
- Yecla DO
Valencia DO
Warm mediterranean climate
- cooling influences from the coast and altitude
- low rainfall - 450mm (irrigation used)
includes small sub-zones
- Alto Turia - foothills of Sistema Iberico (700-1100m)
- coolest area, exclusively white wine
- Moscatel de Alejandria and Merseguera
- VP El Terrerazo (Bodega Mustiguillo)
- Valentino - warmer, but cooled by sea breezes
- diverse range of varieties
- Clariano
- Moscatel
- produces Moscatel de Valencia (vino de licor)
mostly adequate quality, cooperatives
what is vino de licor and Moscatel de Valencia
unfermented grape must that has been fortified with grape spirit
Utiel-Requena DO
Wine region in Valencia
Continental climate
- 750m
- risk of frost
- rainfall around 450mm
95% red varieties
- mostly Bobal (mid to late budding, very drought tolerant, tannins can be grippy, able to retain acidity ripen unevenly, vigorous and high yielding)
- mostly blending to support concentration
Bobal
Grape variety widely used in Utiel-Requena (Valencia)
mid to late budding
very drought tolerant
tannins can be grippy
able to retain acidity
ripens unevenly, vigorous and high yielding
- mostly blending to support concentration in inexpensive wines
- often carbonic maceration
Blackberry, black cherry, chocolate
Alicante DO
region in Valencia
Mediterranean climate
- extremely dry (average 250mm)
Monastrell (Vinalopo zone)
Moscatel de Alejandria (Marina Alta zone)
- humid breezes - sweet wines
Mostly low density bush vines
Red Alicante DO must be min 80% Monastrell
+ Alicante Bouschet, Garnacha, Bobal
- full bodied, high tannins, ripe black fruit, barrel ageing (American common)
Fondillón
- historic wine style
- medium-sweet red wine
- max 40 g/l RS
- late harvested Monastrell
- min alcohol 16%
- no fortification allowed
- min 10 years of maturation in oak (usually 1200L)
- can be Anada or made by solera system
- tend to be oxidative (dried fruits and nuts)
Fondillón
- historic wine style in Alicante DO
- medium-sweet red wine
- max 40 g/l RS
- late harvested Monastrell
- min alcohol 16%
- no fortification allowed
- min 10 years of maturation in oak (usually 1200L)
- can be Anada or made by solera system
- tend to be oxidative (dried fruits and nuts)
Jumilla DO
Wine region in Muncia
Flat plains, warm continental climate
- 400-800m
- cooling influence from altitude - diurnal range
- low annual rainfall 250-300mm
- sand over limestone (water retention)
- many vineyards do not irrigate
Mainly Monastrell (80%)
- full bodied with high alcohol, blackberry, cherry, spice
Other grapes:
- Cencibel (tempranillo) Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouchet), Garnacha, Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot
- often blended with Monastrell to soften tannins
Mainly inexpensive wines with few premium (Casa Castillo, Bodegas El Nido)
Almost whole production sold on export market
Yecla DO
Flat plains, warm continental climate
- some moderation from Mediterranean
- 500-900m
- cooling influence from altitude - diurnal range
- low annual rainfall 300mm
- mixture of sand and limestone
Monastrel dominant
Bulk and bottled. One cooperative produces 60%
95% exported
Wine regions in Castilla-La Mancha
La Mancha DO
Valdepeñas DO
Vino de Pago (9 out of 18 in Spain)
- Dominio de Valdepusa
Castilla VT
La Mancha DO
Largest DO in Spain, larges PDO in Europe (158,000ha)
Large relatively flat meseta at 500-700m
Extreme continental climate
- +45 degrees to -20 degrees
- rainfall 300-400mm
- limestone and chalk (retention of water)
- irrigation common
- low densities of bush vines 1000 per hectare
- trellised, irrigated vineyards 3000 per hectare
Airen - neutral wine for early consumption
- for destillation
Cencibel (Tempranillo)
- fruity style with short contact with oak
Cooperatives - majority of production
- Virgen de las Vinas (largest in Spain)
sold in bulk or bottled
40% exported
Valdepeñas DO
Extreme continental climate
South of meseta
Cencibel (tempranillo)
inexpensive wines
Castilla VT
large range of international and local varieties
inexpensive wines
Txakoli DO
moderate maritime climate
- rainfall as high as 1600mm
- fungal diseases
Mainly Hondarrabi Zuri (white)
- high acidity, medium- body, low alcohol, fresh apple, pear, lemon
- sometimes light spritz
Sierra de Gredos
Mountain range, does not have its own denomination
- may be abelled s Vinos de Madrid DO, Mentrida DO, Cebreros DO, Castilla y Leon VT
Old vine Garnacha in very light style
- 600-1200m
- ligher in tannins, medium+ acidity, strawberry, cherry
Low intervention wines, low levels of sulphur
Albillo Real
- full bodied wines with citrus, floral notes, medum to medium plus acidity
- fermented or/and matured in oak sometimes on skins
The Islands
Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera)
- Manto Negro, Callet, Monastrell, Tempranillo, Malvasia, Cabernet, Chardonnay
Canary Islands
- tropical influence, hot humid conditions
- up to 1500m
- mechanization impossible
- Phylloxera not present
Tenerife
- 5 DOs
- Listan Negro, Malvasia, Listan Blanco (Palomino)
- often carbonic maceration
Valle de Orotava DO (Tenerife)
- several vines twisted together to form long rope, trained on low wires, growing up and down the hillsides
Lanzarote
- dark volcanic ash
- growers dug int ash and protect vines from winds and capture any moisture possible.
- Malvasia, dry and sweet.
