La Mancha

La Mancha is Spain’s largest DO.  It is home to the world’s most planted white grape varietal, Airen.  A grape that is relatively unknown outside of Spain, but occupies a huge expanse of Spanish vineyard area.  Airen’s number one place as the most planted white in the world may soon change, as plantings are in decline in favour of Tempranillo, known locally as Cencibel.  These region grows the usual international varietals.  It’s reputation as a producer of low quality bulk wine is shifting as it is now a source of well made affordable wines for export.