The Mesta was a powerful association of shepherds in Medieval Castile, controlling the routes for herding sheep across the country. Bodegas Fontana’s vineyards are nestled deep in the land of the Mesta, and are still passed over by flocks on their annual migration, a reminder of ancient rights and a cultural cue for continuing co-existence with nature. This Tempranillo rosé is produced from 30-year-old organically farmed estate vineyards in Uclés (Castile, Spain), managed as an integrated ecosystem and studded with centenary oak trees. The region’s continental climate with sunny days and cool nights allows Fontana to achieve intense fruit and excellent varietal definition, while retaining remarkable freshness.
Grapes were picked early morning and quickly transferred to the winery where they are chilled before spending 6-8 hours on the skins. The runoff fermented in stainless steel vats at around 60 °F. Malolactic fermentation was prevented by chilling. After a few months in tank, the wine was cold stabilized and lightly filtered prior to bottling with a dosage of sulfur.