Castilla-La Mancha

This DO in Spain has a vineyard area of around 7.600 hectares. It is named after the town of the same name, the name itself goes back to the Moorish word "Al-Amankha" (dry place). The area is part of the large La Mancha region, and is located to the east of this DO. The vineyards are mostly located on hilly terrain at an altitude of around 700 metres above sea level. Around half the total vineyard area is planted with the red variety Monastrell (Mourvèdre), others include Cencibel (Tempranillo) and small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon. The red wines account for 85% of total production, the white wines are made from Merseguera and Airén. Well-known producers include Bodegas Piqueras and the Coop. del Campo Santa Cruz.