Wines from Jumilla, Spain
Image: copyright Wines from Jumilla, Spain. Author: Guarafia Producciones
Wines from Jumilla, Spain
It may sound incredible, but around 800 hectares of un-grafted vines can be found in DO Jumilla, some at least 50 years old and dating back to a time before planting on American rootstock became compulsory.
They have survived here due to the rocky and sandy terrain, with parts of DO Jumilla so dry and stony that you could be forgiven for thinking you were on the moon rather than in the Southeastern corner of Spain. And few pests, even the omnipresent phylloxera can survive such conditions. The extreme sunshine and semi-arid conditions (just 300l/m2 rainfall per year on average) also mean that over 75% of the region’s vines are farmed organically. There is no other crop so well adapted to the harsh conditions of this land and with so little input needed for its cultivation.
These old bush vines not only ensure some of the lowest natural yields on the planet, but also the vines’ survival without irrigation – 79% of vines are dry-farmed – with the vines sinking their roots deep into the cool, limestone soils and the canopies of the bush vines shading the fruit from the sun.
Being particularly well adapted to semi-arid conditions, Monastrell is the region’s star grape. It makes up almost 75% of the total area. The range of altitudes –from 320 to 1000 metres and different types of soils, from chalky limestone to rocky volcanic soils, sandy gravel and even clay, allow a wide range of styles to be produced. You can find all types of Monastrell in Jumilla: from chalky-textured and fresh lighter reds to big, bold and chewy, and even sweet. The continental climate, with a diurnal temperature range that can fall from 30-40°C at midday to just 8°C at night, ensures that acidity is maintained.
And Monastrell is not the only old vine found in the region; several wineries also make gems from other grapes including Airén, Garnacha and Garnacha Tintorera.
For more information visit:
jumillawine.us
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