Thinking about Spanish wines, the first thing that comes to mind for most of the people is Rioja. But Spanish viniculture has so much more to offer. Spain is home of about 80 DOP wines and many of them are well known to wine experts. But if you are not that familiar with Spanish viniculture and you are willing to explore its hidden gems – here are some of the best little known Spanish wines.
Sherry
If you are sweet wine lover than Sherry is a must-try. Thanks to its unique soil and humidity, only Andalucía can produce wine with such an aromatic profile as Sherry. Real sherry can be made in one place in the province of Cadiz called Sherry Triangle. This sweet fortified wine can range from dry Manzanilla to syrupy sweet Pedro Ximénez.
Priorat
Priorat is a small, dynamic wine region in Catalonia with intense and full-bodied wines. Not so long ago, Priorat wines were hardly known outside Spain. Today, Priorat has risen to the international wine market being one of the world’s most expensive wines. It’s also known for its low yields which is closely linked to quality (for lower yields the quality is higher).
Rueda
The Rueda region is home to a rare white grape called Verdejo. It’s often mixed with another similar variety – the popular Sauvignon Blanc. Rueda wines are aromatic, full-bodied white wines. Aging Rueda wines develop more toasted almond and orange peel notes as they age.
Toro
This wine region in Castilla y Leon is becoming increasingly known for its full-bodied red wines made from Tempranillo grapes. It produces bold and robust wines with rich flavour and aroma. The most popular red grape in Spain, Tempranillo has mutated into a special variety that can only be found in this region.
Campo de Borja
This wine region located in northern Spain is one of the upcoming wine regions. It is well-known for its Garnacha grapes. Apart from Garnacha other grape varieties of interest are Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Campo de Borja wines are full-bodied dense wines with fruity aromas. Even though levels of production are low, they are highly appreciated among the wine experts.
