Alicante, on Spain's sun-baked southeastern Mediterranean coast, has built its modern reputation on Monastrell, grown on poor, dry soils that keep yields low and flavour concentrated. The region also has a centuries-old tradition of Fondillón, a rare, oxidatively aged sweet wine made from late-harvested Monastrell, once prized across Europe and now enjoying a small revival among specialist producers.

Key grapes: Monastrell, Garnacha Tintorera