Calatayud
Situated in the province of Zaragoza to the south-west of Aragón, Calatayud was granted DO (Denominación de Origen) status in 1990. Since then winemakers have transformed the area from its image as a bulk producer to that of a more distinctive and high quality wine region. Calatayud is known for its big and bold red wines – mainly produced from Garnacha grapes, which represent approximately 85% of vineyard plantings. The wine regulating body sets quality criteria based on the age of the Garnacha vines – older vines produce more concentrated wines. Those made from vines more than 50 years old are given the classification 'Calatayud Superior', however these are rare but extremely sought-after. Tempranillo and Mazuelo are the other main red varieties, while the region's whites are based on Viura (Macabeo), Malvasía and Chardonnay. Garnacha-based rosé wines (Rosado) are also common.