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Alicante, a picturesque sub-region nestled within the sun-soaked province of Valencia on the eastern coast of Spain, boasts a captivating environment that beckons wine enthusiasts from around the world. This Mediterranean gem is renowned for its stunning landscapes, where vineyards flourish under the caressing Spanish sun. With a rich viticultural history dating back to Roman times, Alicante has firmly established itself as a prominent player in Spain's winemaking heritage.
Alicante's unique climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, which provide the perfect conditions for cultivating a variety of grape varietals. Among the most prominent red grape varieties, Monastrell reigns supreme, known for its robust, full-bodied red wines. Garnacha tintorera and Cabernet Sauvignon also thrive in this region, adding diversity to the red wine offerings. These grapes soak up the abundant sunshine and well-drained soils to create wines with intense flavors and a sense of terroir.
Alicante's white wines are equally enticing, with Macabeo, Airén, and Sauvignon Blanc dominating the vineyards. These white grape varieties produce refreshing and aromatic wines, offering a delightful contrast to the region's hearty reds.
Visiting Alicante is a sensory journey through lush vineyards set against a backdrop of breathtaking Mediterranean vistas. The wines that emerge from this region's fertile terroir are a testament to the harmony between the environment and the grapes it nurtures, making Alicante a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of Spanish viticulture at its finest.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
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Alicante, a region in southeastern Spain, is known for its wine production. Situated in the Valencian Community, Murcia and Albacete border it to the west, Valencia to the north, the city of Murcia to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the east.
The region is characterized by two distinct climates: the coastal area, called the Marina, has a Mediterranean climate with scorching summers, while the Vinalopó area, which spans from Villena to Pinoso, is more continental and dry, with annual rainfall of just 300 mm.
The soils in Alicante vary from sandy loam to clay, and have high porosity and drainage, which helps prevent the growth of fungi harmful to the vine.
Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Monastrell, Garnacha tintorera, Cabernet Sauvignon
Most Planted White Grape Varieties: Macabeo, Airén, Sauvignon Blanc
The Valencia wine region is a treasure trove of viticultural delights, offering an array of red and white wines that reflect the region's diverse terroirs and Mediterranean climate.
Among the most common red wines in Valencia, Tempranillo, locally known as "Ull de Llebre," takes center stage. This versatile grape variety yields well-structured wines with tantalizing flavors of red berries, cherries, and delicate spices. With balanced acidity and smooth tannins, Tempranillo wines are perfect for sipping on their own or pairing with a wide range of dishes. Another star of Valencia's red wines is Monastrell, also known as "Mourvèdre" in other wine regions. Flourishing in the region's hot and dry climate, Monastrell wines are a deep and bold expression of Valencia. Bursting with intense aromas of dark fruits, earth, and herbs, these wines boast robust tannins and exceptional aging potential. Not to be missed is the indigenous Bobal grape, emblematic of Valencia's winemaking heritage. Bobal wines delight the palate with a distinct earthy character, coupled with lively fruit flavors and refreshing acidity, showcasing the region's unique identity.
Valencia is equally celebrated for its vibrant white wines, with the Moscatel grape taking a starring role. These aromatic whites charm with their captivating floral, citrus, and tropical fruit notes. Ranging from dry to sweet, Moscatel wines offer versatility that pairs exquisitely with various cuisines or stands alone as delightful aperitifs. Another notable white grape is Macabeo, also known as Viura in other Spanish regions. Macabeo wines boast a fresh and fruity profile, with crisp apple and pear flavors and a subtle hint of almonds. These well-balanced whites are a refreshing choice for enjoying on warm Valencia evenings. Completing the white wine spectrum is Chardonnay, a non-native variety that has found its place in Valencia's vineyards. Valencia's Chardonnay wines impress with tropical fruit flavors, bright acidity, and a touch of creamy richness, proving that they, too, can thrive in this unique terroir.
From robust reds to aromatic whites, the wines of Valencia offer a captivating journey through the region's rich winemaking traditions and sun-kissed Mediterranean landscapes. Each glass provides a true taste of Valencia's passion for winemaking, inviting wine enthusiasts to explore the diverse and delightful offerings of this picturesque Spanish wine region.
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