Chris Wilson explores Jumilla and Almansa with Gil Family Estates

With control of 1,750 hectares of vineyards across 10 different DOs, Gil Family Estates has Spain pretty much covered. The focus right across the portfolio is on terroir-driven wines from indigenous grape varieties, grown in old-vine vineyards – some vines burrow through one metre of solid rock and then another seven metres. Showcasing the true character and potential of Spain’s old grape varieties has become a labour of love for this 110-year-old family owned outfit as Chris Wilson discovered when he visited two of the DOs – Jumilla and Almansa – and here picks out a dozen of the wines that stood out at tastings.