Bodegas Frontonio’s 2021 La Loma & Los Santos comes from Aragon in north-eastern Spain, a region gaining international acclaim for its expressive, terroir-driven wines. While the precise grape blend isn’t confirmed here, many reds from this area are crafted from varieties like Garnacha, possibly alongside other indigenous grapes. The 2021 vintage benefits from a season that was generally consistent and temperate, preserving freshness and varietal character. The estate is known for a philosophy of minimal intervention, with careful selection of fruit from high-altitude plots and a hands-on approach to vinification that typically emphasises purity and elegance. Maturation may involve concrete or neutral vessels to retain the clarity and vibrancy that epitomise the house style.
Aragon’s viticultural heritage is rooted in its rugged topography and continental climate, with hot summers, cold winters and significant diurnal temperature shifts—especially in higher vineyards. The soils here are a mosaic of calcareous clay, stony terraces and slate, lending complexity, minerality and structure to the wines. Historically overshadowed by Rioja and Ribera del Duero, this region has in recent years been recognised for old vineyards and winemakers dedicated to reviving ancient practices. Bodegas Frontonio represents this new wave, focusing on authenticity and the unique expressions of its parcels.
This red is likely to display vibrant red and black fruits, lively acidity and a subtle mineral streak. It would accompany beautifully a range of foods, from simply grilled lamb chops or chargrilled pork, through to rustic Spanish stews, such as chilindrón with pepper and tomatoes. Local cured meats and tangy Manchego cheese offer deliciously traditional pairings, drawing out the wine’s savoury undertones.
For optimal enjoyment, decanting for an hour can help the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic potential. Serve at 16–18°C to best enjoy its freshness and depth, and savour the contemporary spirit of Aragon in each glass.
