Get away to the south and discover another of Andalusia’s major attractions: its winemaking tradition
Marbella, 19 August 2016. With the onset of autumn, the beaches in the south are gradually abandoned, giving way to the many other attractions hidden away in Andalusia, with an emphasis on wines. Andalusian winemaking traditions date back to Roman times, although they became practically extinct in many areas of the autonomous community during the 19th Century, due to the effects of phylloxera. However, the renaissance of a plethora of family-run wineries has been seen during the 20th and early 21st century, along with major companies dedicated to this centuries-old art.
The blossoming of this industry has gone hand-in-hand with promotional activities, with the noble aim of combining tourism with winemaking. The result is that regardless of the province that you visit, you can enjoy touring wine routes around the area. We particularly liked the Jerez Wine Route, which is renowned both in Spain and overseas; and the Ronda Hills wine route, due to its uniqueness and the spectacular nature of the landscape where the grapes are grown.
Sherry: a unique production process thanks to the Flor layer
The main stops on the Jerez Wine Route are the districts of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María. The best known fortified wines are the so-called “Generosos”, including the renowned Fino and Manzanilla from Sanlúcar de Barrameda, with special characteristics influenced by the beneficial microclimate conditions on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean; other types include Amontillados, Olorosos and Palo Cortado.
The secret of these wines mainly lies in the location of the vineyards around the Guadalquivir estuary, where westerly winds moderate the temperatures and make the environment somewhat humid. But the secret also lies in the unique, different, biological and natural production process, based on the system of criaderas and soleras, and in the special fermentation achieved thanks to the so-called flor layer.
Ronda, a privileged climate that creates a well-rounded and fruity wine
A mixture of cold, wet winters, hot summers and one of the highest rainfalls in Andalusia, mean that wines from the Ronda Hills Wine Route are products with great variety and plenty of personality. Forming part of the Appellation of Origin of Wines of the Sierra de Málaga, they are well-rounded wines, fruity on the nose and with aromas that soften and gain complexity with age. In this region can be found reds and rosés made from grape varieties Romé, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Tempranillo; and whites made from Chardonnay, Macabeo and Sauvignon Blanc.
The route has around 15 wineries where wines can be tasted. It is also possible to tour the vineyards themselves, participate in tasting sessions and visit the Wine Interpretation Centre, where unique aspects of this delicious delicacy can be examined in greater detail.
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Where to stay
Combine a visit to the region’s wineries with a wonderful stay at a beautiful hotel, located on one of the best beaches in Cádiz province, just 1 hour from Jerez.
From 88 euros in a double room with breakfast
For more information and bookings: 900.82.82.10
Take advantage of your getaway to this beautiful area to discover one of the great natural areas of Andalusia: the spectacular Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, just over half an hour away from Ronda
From 67 euros per night in a double room with breakfast
For more information and bookings: 900.82.82.10
