Bodega Frontio Follaco 2021

Bodega Frontio is a captivating natural wine project located in the Arribes region of Spain, initiated by Danish wine enthusiast Thyge Benned Jensen. Thyge, a former finance professional, left a career in Copenhagen to pursue his passion for winemaking. In 2016, he established Bodega Frontio in the beautiful and remote Arribes area, known for its stunning natural landscapes and old vineyards.

Thyge's approach to winemaking is deeply rooted in organic and low-intervention principles. He focuses on producing handcrafted wines that are defined by the quality of the grapes, the soil, and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Using indigenous yeast and low extraction methods, Thyge crafts wines that are soft, fruity, and complex. The vineyards boast a variety of grape varieties, allowing him to create different styles of wine, including attempts at rosé, sparkling, and a fantastic orange wine. His aim is to blend these varieties effectively to produce better wines.

Bodega Frontio's wines are defined by Thyge's unique vision and dedication to creating soft and gentle wines that can be enjoyed repeatedly. He aspires to make the local grape variety Juan Garcia well-known through his wines. Thyge's journey from a corporate job to the world of winemaking in Spain is an inspiring tale of following one's passion and contributing to the diversity and richness of the wine world.

The Castilla-La Mancha wine region in central Spain is one of the largest and most diverse wine-producing areas in Europe. Known for its vast vineyard expanse, the region covers a significant part of central Spain, surrounding the cities of Toledo, Ciudad Real, Cuenca, and Albacete. This area is characterized by a continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, generally favorable conditions for viticulture.

The predominant grape varieties in Castilla-La Mancha include Tempranillo, locally known as Cencibel, along with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. White wine production also thrives, with Airén being the most planted grape, covering vast tracts of the region. This grape is often used for still white wines and as a base for brandy production.

Castilla-La Mancha is divided into several Denominaciones de Origen (DOs), including La Mancha, the largest and perhaps the most recognized. Other notable DOs include Valdepeñas, known for quality red wines, and Manchuela, which has gained attention for its Bobal and Malbec varieties.

This region is traditionally known for producing high-volume, value-oriented wines. However, there has been a shift towards quality and innovation in recent years, with increased attention to limited production, high-quality wines, and sustainable viticultural practices. Modern winemaking techniques and careful vineyard management have led to a rise in the region's reputation, showcasing the potential of its terroir and grape varieties.

Winemaking in Castilla-La Mancha benefits from the region's vast flatlands, which facilitate mechanized farming, contributing to the efficiency of its wine production. The wine industry here plays a crucial role in the local economy.