Spain is one of the largest wine-producing countries in the world, and is famous for its diverse wine regions, grape varieties, and styles. The Spanish wine collection includes a wide range of red, white, and rosé wines, as well as fortified wines like Sherry and Madeira.
Some of the most famous wine regions in Spain include Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Priorat, and Jerez. Rioja is known for its classic, oak-aged Tempranillo red wines, while Ribera del Duero produces rich and powerful Tempranillo wines as well. Priorat is a small region known for its high-quality, concentrated red wines made from old-vine Garnacha and Carignan. Jerez, in the south of Spain, is the home of Sherry, a fortified wine made using the Palomino grape.
Other popular grape varieties in Spain include Albariño, a light and refreshing white grape from Galicia, and the full-bodied, tannic Monastrell grape, grown in several regions throughout the country. Spanish wine is also known for its excellent value, with many high-quality wines available at relatively affordable prices.
Some of the most well-known Spanish wines include:
Rioja: This is perhaps the most famous Spanish wine, known for its smooth, fruit-forward flavors and aging potential. Rioja is produced in the Rioja region of northern Spain and is made primarily from Tempranillo grapes.
Cava: Cava is Spain's most famous sparkling wine, produced in the Penedès region near Barcelona. It is made in the traditional method, similar to Champagne, and can be made from a variety of grape varieties, including Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada.
Verdejo: Verdejo is a white wine produced in the Rueda region of northwest Spain. It is known for its crisp, refreshing flavors and is often enjoyed as an aperitif.