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La Mancha endorses Pinot, Malbec and Riesling
09 September, 2009
La Mancha has changed its production rules to allow the use of grape varieties such as Riesling, Malbec and Pinot Noir.
The Spanish region – once associated with unremarkable wines made from Airén and Cencibel – is also endorsing the production of natural sweet wines, and aged whites.
Thirteen grape varieties are currently allowed in the region, which will now be joined by Pedro Ximénez, Torrontés, Gewurztraminer, Parellada, Riesling, Viognier, Monastrell, Bobal, Graciano, Malbec, Mencía, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir.
For naturally sweet wines, production must be based on endorsed dehydrated white grapes, previously crushed to obtain the must, with sugar levels of 300 grams per litre or higher.
White wines endorsed by the appellation can also be made, with a minimum ageing period of 18 months, at least six of which must be spent in oak.
