The Oveja Tinta Graciano/Malbec 2019 and Mesta Tempranillo 2020 are two GIWC top 20 winners from Cuenca, Spain.
The Bodegas Fontana Winery produces both bottles and has been owned and operated by the Cantarero family for many decades. The modern estate was purchased by Jesus Cantarero in 1997 and is home to 400 hectares of new organically farmed plantations.
The winery is situated in Uclés DO, in the historical province of Cuenca. With an altitude that varies between 700-900 metres, the estate experiences cool nights that provide fresh acidity and a hint of spice to the grapes, and warm days that ensure lovely ripe red fruits. There is low rainfall in the region and little irrigation to respect the water reserves, which produces a low yield of high-quality grapes. The area is home to red clay loam soils that assist with a slow ripening process and flavour preservation in the summertime. The land is also sprinkled with 100-year-old oak trees and wildflowers during spring.
All winemaking at the estate is focused on balance and harmony, with the Masters of Wine wanting their bottle to reflect the great natural beauty of the landscape. Using cool fermentation processes with little extraction to do so. It is also produced with sustainable practices being organically farmed and managed as an integrated ecosystem to protect natural biodiversity.
The Tempranillo grapes ripen earlier than the Graciano, and is more consistent in the North of Spain. This wine is certified for its sustainability and organic production. It is a very fruit-forward and approachable red that would pair well with the likes of a deli-platter or some lamb shanks. It is smooth with violet and lavender notes.
Both wines will appeal to drinkers who want sensory satisfaction and knowledge of the context and ideology behind their wine. It is for the environmentally-conscious consumer that wants to explore a beautiful part of Spain in one glass.
FAST FACTS:
Winery Name: Bodegas Fontana
Location: Cuenca
Region & Country: Castile-La Mancha, Spain
Grape Variety/Varieties: Graciano & Tempranilo
'Fun Fact' about the wine/winery/winemaker? Bodegas Fontana was a founding member of the progressive Spanish Sustainability Body - Wineries for Climate Protection.
