Travel is no exception, and it is becoming increasingly common for the itineraries we draw up to complete our family vacations, or with friends, to include visits to some of the wineries in the area.
One of the destinations where these activities are increasing is the province of Cadiz, where Jerez has an ancient winemaking tradition. A true epicenter of the wine route of the province, this city of high pedigree carries wine in its blood, permeating the daily life of its inhabitants, and continuously emitting the aroma of wine in its streets and squares. It is a way of life that has become a culture.
Thus, everyone who visits the city, in addition to strolling through its Alcazar, visiting the Cathedral, or attending a flamenco or horse show, goes to one of its many wineries to delve into the wonderful history of the wines of Jerez, whose prestige transcends our borders to reach the international stage.
Just nearby, the famous Puerto de Santa Maria, summer resort of the great families of Jerez, is also home to some of the most important wineries in the area like Caballero, Terry and Osborne, which in their heyday chose the proximity of the sea to facilitate the export by boat of their wines, as well as for the benefits that the humidity brought to the aging of these.
But the province of Cadiz is home to many other oenological treasures, whose personality has turned them into unique and unmistakable products. We are referring, for example, to the famous manzanilla from San Lúcar de Barrameda, where wineries such as La Guita or Barbadillo have made this popular wine a renowned wine that boasts two centuries of history.
Made from Palomino grapes, this dry white wine has the peculiarity of aging under a layer of yeast known as velo de flor. It is light on the palate, very pale, with a sharp, dry and slightly acidic aroma, ideal to accompany an aperitif.
Following the coast you will reach Chipiona and Rota, two municipalities where you can sample two other varieties that add to the great oenological richness of this Andalusian province: muscatel and tintilla, excellent to drink cold as an aperitif, or paired with the typical fried food of Cádiz.
In the case of muscatel wine, the leading role is played by the grape of the same name, which produces a very aromatic wine that, depending on the alcoholic fermentation to which it is subjected, produces dry or semi-sweet varieties. In the case of the latter, it pairs very well with cheeses and desserts.
Tintatilla wine is made from red grapes, which are produced in very small quantities, and can be used to make both dry and sweet wines.
Centuries of winemaking history that never cease to improve, incorporating new techniques and in many cases opting for organic methods, so that the traditional classics also highlight their eco-friendly approach.
As an example, when arriving in Chiclana de la Frontera, one of the most established tourist towns in Cadiz, visit the Bodega Sancha Perez. If you go with children, ask to visit their orchard, where they can discover how to replace harmful chemical herbicides with natural products, among many other things.
In addition to discovering the secrets of organic vine cultivation, you will learn the art of making oil in an artisanal and organic way, achieving an authentic "liquid gold" that delights the most demanding palates.
Finish your tour with a glass of Jerez wine watching the sunset from your room at the Valentin Sancti Petri, and enjoy the spectacular views of the spectacular miles-long La Barrosa beach. We look forward to seeing you!