SPANISH WINE BY REGION: ANDALUSIA

As food lovers, we’re enthusiastic about every part of Spanish cuisine. Gastronomy is such a terrific way to immerse yourself in a foreign culture. But of course, it isn’t just food. Wine is also vital to Spanish culture and is an integral part Spanish social gatherings

Every region produces its own wine and has done so for generations. But in this blog, you’ll read about wines from Andalusia. Let’s explore! 

Note: DO refers to Denominaciones de Origen Protegidas which is similar to the AOC in France and DOP in Italy. It is a body that protects traditional products in Spain.

DO Condado de Huelva

Huelva’s wine region is in the southeast, near the beautiful Parque Doñana. The conditions are suitable for growing Zalema, a white grape that is used to make Condado Viejo wine. You’ll pick up earthy, nutty notes that perfectly match with jamón ibérico, another specialty of the region. Like many whites, this wine is best served chilled. Additionally, DO Condado de Huelva is the only producer of sparkling wine in Andalusia! Try a glass (or bottle) of Raigal, for example.

DO Montilla-Moriles

The DO Montilla-Moriles is in the south of Córdoba and has a favorable climate for both red and white grapes. The wine from this region is often compared to Sherry from nearby Jerez, however, it has its own distinct characteristics. These wines are not as dry and sweet as Jerez wines. White grapes from Montilla-Moriles include Pedro Ximénez, Moscatel, and Montilla, to name a few. The red grape varieties you might have heard of before, such as Tempranillo, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

DO Jerez-Xérès-Sherry

One of the most famous Andalusian wines is DO Jeréz-Xérès-Sherry which comes from the Cadiz province. More specifically, Andalusians call it the Sherry Triangle: Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and El Puerto de Santa María.

You can find these wines in dry, blended, and sweet varieties. Traditionally, sherry is drunk before a meal to open up digestion and prepare the palate. So you know now what to choose as an aperitif on your next trip to Andalusia!

See more: Spanish Wine by Region and Type Infographics

DO Manzanilla de Sanlúcar de Barrameda

Also in the Cádiz province is the DO Manzanilla de Sanlúcar de Barrameda where the exquisite Manzanilla wine is made. While Manzanilla can also come from DO Jerez-Xérès-Sherry, the wine from this region is quite different and, therefore, its own DO. Manzanilla takes its name from the Spanish word for “chamomile,”and this dry wine exhibits distinct chamomile notes. Manzanilla from Sanlúcar is pale in color, a little salty, and has a more delicate flavor than the Jerez. Dry Manzanilla is especially popular in Andalusia during celebrations like the Feria de Abril in Seville, or other local festivals.

DO Málaga

Moving farther east in the DO Málaga, you’ll mostly find sweet and semi-sweet, white wines which Malagueños drink as dessert wines. They’re made from Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel grapes and can be darker in color than other whites. Málaga province has a long wine-making history, dating back to Roman times!

DO Sierras de Málaga (Ronda Wines)

Málaga has another wine region, the DO Sierras de Málaga, which is near Ronda, in the mountains. The high altitude enables different grape varieties to grow, resulting in whites, reds, and rosés. And all of them pair perfectly with local cuisine. Red grape varieties here include Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and pair well with the dried charcuterie from the mountains. The white grapes here  are mostly Chardonnay, Macabeo, and Sauvignon Blanc, which are delicious with Málaga’s seafood.

Discover the finest Andalusian wines with Food Lover Tour

Love wine and want to learn more? Don’t hesitate and come join us on a Spanish culinary adventure!