From: La Mancha, Spain
Blend: 70% Chardonnay, 30% Sauvignon Blanc
Taste & Critical Acclaim: Zesty and lively bouquet with daffodil and vanilla blossom florals wrapped around lemon curd, pineapple, and quince notes riding a saline and granite underpinning with plenty of aromatic lift. The zesty nose leads to a surprisingly round and viscous entry, with the fleshy midpalate supported by a chalky minerality that keeps things moving. The mouthfeel is continuously rich and creamy, with plenty of apple spice and citrus notes counterbalancing the creaminess of the barrel-ferment. Excellent tension. Bone-dry and delicious!
90-points James Suckling
A very steely nose with some Japanese yuzu to the green apples, quince and green pineapples. Fresh and bone-dry on the palate, showing a textured center palate with a medium to full body. Pithy and pristine finish. Drink now.
Pairing: This lovely white wine pairs wonderfully with white fish, shrimp, or chicken dishes, pasta, and rice dishes. Some examples include seafood paella, roasted chicken Provençal, za’atar chicken with garlic yogurt and cilantro, olive oil-poached cod, Spanish Tortilla (check out the recipe that plays off the original below), fried halibut, brandade, salt cod, potato and chickpea stew, shrimp scampi, garlic shrimp, shrimp fried rice, and just about any pasta without tomato sauce.
Leek and Cod Tortilla
By Kay Chun
This wine. This unique wine will have broad appeal to Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc lovers alike. Produced from high-altitude vines planted at 2,500 feet on the Mesa de Ocana high above Castillo-La Mancha, this barrel-fermented Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc will thrill you with its lively bouquet and delicious palate viscosity. Here, the rocky, reddish-brown sandy clay, rich in limestone and chalk, is perfect for producing highly aromatic and concentrated white wines that become particularly complex with barrel fermentation.
100% estate vineyards, Finca Munoz La Mancha Estate
100% barrel-fermented American oak
70% Chardonnay, 30% Sauvignon Blanc
13% alc.
About. The Beginnings in Noblejas: A Rich Winemaking Heritage
Bodegas Muñoz's journey began in 1940 in Noblejas, a charming town in Toledo. Renowned for its winemaking heritage, this location south of Madrid boasts perfect climatic and soil conditions for cultivating high-quality grapes. The post-war era marked the foundation of Bodegas Muñoz, initiated by a family with a profound passion for viticulture. They started with a small vineyard in Noblejas, leveraging their deep knowledge and enthusiasm for winemaking.
Early Success and Growth
The initial years were pivotal for learning and refining techniques. Each harvest brought new insights, enhancing the quality of their wines. The meticulous attention to vine cultivation soon paid off, as the grapes from these lands exhibited exceptional potential. This led to regional recognition for Bodegas Muñoz's wines.
Expansion and Evolution
With time, Bodegas Muñoz expanded its vineyard area and diversified grape varieties, enriching its wines' complexity and flavor profiles. This growth was balanced with a deep respect for traditional winemaking methods while embracing innovative techniques. This harmony of old and new is evident in every aspect of production, from vineyard management to aging processes.
Modernization and Technological Advancements
In pursuit of excellence, Bodegas Muñoz integrated advanced technologies in winemaking, modernizing production, and aging facilities. This included stainless steel fermentation tanks and automated temperature control, ensuring consistent wine quality. The bottling process also saw significant upgrades, emphasizing efficiency and hygiene. These advancements increased production capacity and improved wine quality, helping Bodegas Muñoz meet international standards and expand its global presence.
The Role of Competitions and Guides
Recognition through wine competitions and guides is crucial in the competitive wine industry. Such accolades serve as indicators of quality and excellence. Bodegas Muñoz has distinguished itself in this arena with several awards from prestigious competitions and features in renowned wine guides, reinforcing its reputation and assuring consumers of its commitment to quality.
Commitment to Sustainability
Bodegas Muñoz places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Practices like responsible water management, soil conservation, and the use of renewable energy underscore its commitment to eco-friendly winemaking. By promoting biodiversity and practicing efficient waste management, Bodegas Muñoz contributes to environmental preservation and enhances the quality of its wines. This ecological consciousness extends to educating the community, ensuring a sustainable legacy for future generations.
