The DO was awarded status in 1957 and is split into two zones. The coastal zone is La Marina while the inland is called Vinalopo.
Vines & Styles
Monastrell/Mourvedre, Bobal, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo and Garnacha are the red grapes cultivated here. Moscatel de Alejandria, Alicante Bouchet, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are planted for the white wines. Rosado is made from Monastrell. Sweet wines produced under the name Moscatel de Alicante are made well. A unique, oxidised wine produced without fortificartion called Fondillion is also produced here using the Solera system. It's crafted from over ripe Monastrell grapes, is a real find if unearthed and is beginning to gain ground at the moment. The wines produced tend to be punchy and full bodied however modern techniques and blending are producing lighter styles.
Climate & Conditions
The coastal, La Marina, region has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers tempered by coastal breezes. Inland the Vinalopo sub region is affected by a continental climate with very little rainfall.