Fontana 'Mesta' Tempranillo 2023

Region: Spain, Castilla La Mancha, La Mancha
grape(s): Tempranillo
farming: practicing sustainable, certified organic

La Mesta was a powerful medieval Spanish guild of sheep farmers that herded flocks throughout central Spain - hence the label. The rolling hills where sheep historically grazed are now covered with vineyards of grapes and rows of olive trees, arguably harder to rangle than sheep. The continental climate in central Spain leads to warm days and cool nights. The warm days translate to a wine with ripeness and weight. The cool nights help the grapes retain acidity and freshness. The combination reults in the wine that’s crisp and clean, tart and fresh. Expect zesty citrus fruits and saltiness on the nose with ripe orchard fruit and melon on the palate.

Pairings: Fried cod tacos with slaw and lime