Bobal (native to the region)
Tempranillo, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot, Garnacha Tintorera and Cabernet Franc.
Tardana (native to the region)
Macabeo, Merseguera, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Parellada, Xarel-lo, Verdejo y Moscatel de Grano Menudo
The P.D.O. Utiel-Requena is a region of red wines, with those grape varieties making up 94.27% of its surface area.
The most widely planted variety is the Bobal grape, comprising 80% of the production in Utiel-Requena. It is the second most widely planted vine in Spain after Tempranillo. A native variety, Bobal adapts perfectly to the climate and soil of the region.The Bobal grape variety best develops its characteristics in areas of high elevations with short and dry summers. The Bobal is a hardy variety and it sprouts late, and therefore is better protected from the risk of spring frosts.
Owing to the great quantity of anthocyanins in its skin, the wines made from Bobal have an intense colour and character, and a high level of tannins that is good for ageing. It provides for aged red wines of intense colour, with good body and complex flavours. It is also an ideal varietal for making reds using carbonic maceration, as well as fruity rosé wine with a unique colour. The skin of the Bobal has a high resveratrol level, an anti-carcinogenic substance with positive health benefits for the heart. A scientific study has shown that resveratrol contributes metabolising fats.
At present, the Bobal grape is used for health and natural products such as juice, biscuits, marmalade and ice cream. The ripe grape is low in sodium and rich in potassium, contains high levels of oligoelements and vitamins, with the main organic acids, malic and tartaric. The latter, with its salt content, is considered important and very healthy. (More information at www.bobal.es)
Tempranillo is the second most planted grape variety in Utiel-Requena, making up 12% of the harvest.
The white varieties represent 5.73% of the vineyards in Utiel-Requena: Tardana is a white grape native to Utiel-Requena. It is also called Planta Nova or Coma. Tardana ripens late, and has a tough skin that prolongs its life. The variety produces pale, golden-yellow toned white wines with distinct and intense fruity aromas (pineapple, apple, and so on). In the mouth, the wines are fresh and balanced, well-structured, and persistent.
Macabeo is a white variety with a greenish, straw colour, and an intense and fruity aroma. Merseguera variety is only planted in the highest elevations in the region.
Superior, Traditional, Barrel Aged, Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva and Liquor Wine.
White, rosé and red wines in their first or second year, un-aged and with superior sensory qualities (taste, color, bouquet etc.). A minimum of 11° alcohol for white wines and 11.5° for red wines.
Wine that is mainly made from the Bobal grape. It has a minimum of 12° alcohol and can also be superior, barrel-aged, crianza, reserve or gran reserve.
Wine that spends a maximum of six months in oak barrels. The contact with the wood and the aging process transform the wine's color, aroma and taste. Minimum 12° alcohol.
A wine which is aged for at least 24 months, 6 of them in oak casks with a capacity of less than 330 liters. Minimum 12° alcohol.
A wine which is aged for at least 36 months, 12 of them in oak casks with a capacity of less than 330 liters. Minimum 12° alcohol.
A wine which is aged for at least 60 months, 18 of them in oak casks with a capacity of less than 330 liters. Minimum 12° alcohol.
