DO Almansa D.O. wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Denominacion de Origen

Almansa D.O. covers eight municipalities in the province of Albacete, in Castilla-La Mancha. The vineyards lie on a high plateau that marks the eastern border with the former Kingdom of Valencia at the Almansa corridor, a historic passage between Levante and Castile. Altitude rises from around 400 to 700 metres over a short distance, setting this territory apart from the neighbouring Levante lands and giving it a pronounced continental climate: cold, dry winters, very hot summers, and scarce rainfall concentrated in spring and late summer. Soils are calcareous and low in organic matter, ranging from stony, shallow-substrate areas to deeper, sandier ground. Ten red grape varieties are authorised, led by Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell, alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Syrah, Merlot, Garnacha Tinta, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc; five white varieties complete the range, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Verdejo.

The wines of this appellation

Almansa D.O. produces red, white and rosé wines, as well as quality sparkling wines. Reds, made mainly from Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell, show medium to deep colour ranging from violet-red to garnet, cherry or ruby; their nose carries clean, medium-to-high intensity fruit aromas, and the palate combines balance with structure. Oak-aged reds gain complexity, with toasted notes and colour evolving toward brick-red hues. Whites, led by Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Verdejo, show pale yellow to straw colour, a clean fruity nose and a fresh, lively palate; barrel-aged versions develop woody, toasted notes. Rosés, with raspberry, strawberry or salmon hues, are fruity, smooth and well balanced. Naturally low yields concentrate colour, tannin and aroma in the reds. Reds pair well with grilled red meat and poultry, while whites and rosés suit fish and tapas.