Jumilla Wine Region

The area surrounding Jumilla town is home to some of the country's and world's best wines, which have earned recognition for their quality in recent years.

Jumilla has been a recognized wine region since before La Rioja. This is a unique region of the wine world, containing Europe's greatest collection of ungrafted vines. Jumilla wines stand out among wines in Valencia because of the character that distinguishes Jumilla grapes. Monastrell grape wine with a full, rich body is a cornerstone of the wine from this region, which truly portrays Spain’s spirit. Do not miss the opportunity to discover this attractive wine region in all respects during your Jumilla wine tasting and tour!

Where is the Jumilla Wine Region?

Jumilla is a small wine-growing region in Murcia that is the oldest and most important designation (DO) between DO Yecla and DO Bullas. DO Jumilla is part of the Murcian area and part of the Albacete province.

Unique Terroir of Jumilla Wine Appellation

The distinct terroir of Jumilla region is fundamental for the winemaking characteristics. Jumilla has a fully continental climate, with extremely hot summers and cold winters. Jumilla soils are stony, frequently with a limestone layer; they properly retain moisture, and the vine does not dry out even during the hottest months of the year. Jumilla's vineyards are positioned 500-800 meters above sea level, so the grapes are harvested when they ripen.

History of the Development of Winemaking in Jumilla 

The history of the wine area in the south-east of Spain began in the nineteenth century, when France was ravaged by a phylloxera epidemic. There was a wine shortage in Europe, and the Jumilla producers made the best of the situation. Since of their efforts, this region was one of the first to be granted DO status in 1966. By the way, Jumilla grape seedlings were never crossed with resistant varieties from the New World, which was thought to be the secret of their resistance to aphid invasion. 

In the late 80s the phylloxera epidemic hit the region, the government invested a lot in it to restore the industry. As a result, Jumilla has become a region where the maximum number of innovative technologies are involved in the field of winemaking. Many processes are automated, and modern technology is used to cultivate the soil and protect vineyards from pests.

It is now back in first place, and Jumilla wine may be enjoyed in any country in the globe. Experts love it because of its rich, nuanced flavor and aromatics.

What is Jumilla Wine?

White wines: Merseguera, Airen, Pedro Jimenez 

Red and rosé wines: Grenache, Monastrell and Tempranillo

Jumilla white wines are mostly made from the Merseguera grape, although the grape Airen is also becoming increasingly popular, as its wines are valued by wine lovers outside of Spain. The best of these wines are light and fruity, with hints of green apple and a delightful palate. White wines are offered as an aperitif or with fish dishes at 8-10 °C.

Rosé wines from Jumilla, as well as red wines, should contain at least 50% Monastrell. The aroma is powerful, with hints of raspberries and strawberries as well as flowery overtones. The flavor is crisp, with noticeable fruity undertones. The recommended serving temperature is 10-12 °C.

The majority of the wines produced in Jumilla are reds; many are 100 percent Monastrell, but there are also blends of Monastrell and Sensible (Tempranillo). Young wines have a fruity aroma (cherries, dates, currants) and a very pleasant taste. Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva wines should be aged in barrels. The balance of alcohol, acidity, body, and taste is their distinguishing feature. The recommended serving temperature is 14-16 °C.

Food to Pair with Jumilla wine

Ensalada Murciana, Typical Salad of the Region

Murcian salad, or ensalada murciana, is a typical Spanish salad. It contains tomatoes, onions, tuna or fish, hard-boiled eggs, and black cuquillo olives. The tomatoes, like the rest of the salad's ingredients, are sliced into smaller parts.

This salad is often served chilled in the summer and at room temperature in the winter. Because Ensalada Murciana improves with time, it's best to make it a few hours or even a day ahead of time. It should be served with lots of homemade bread for dipping.

Mojete huertano

Mojete huertano is a typical Spanish salad popular in Murcia, Andalusia, and La Mancha. Tomatoes, tuna, black olives, hard-boiled eggs, red or white wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and sugar are common ingredients in the salad.

Roasted tomatoes are peeled, coarsely diced, and placed in a large serving bowl. They're seasoned with salt and sugar and then tossed in olive oil and vinegar. The salad is nicely combined, and the olives, hard-boiled eggs, and tuna chunks are put on top. Mojete Huerfano is traditionally served in soup bowls with spoons and is best accompanied by fresh country bread on the side.

Conejo Con Arroz, Spanish Dish with Rice and Rabbit

There are a lot of variations on this conejo con arroz, with some people making it as a thin layer of rice with pieces of rabbit on top and others roasting it in the style of "arroz caldoso". Some other ingredients needed to make this dish include onion, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, garlic and olive oil. It’s seasoned with some spices like saffron, bay leaves, paprika, and salt for more flavour. 

Common in traditional Murcian, Calasparra, and El Ronquillo cuisines, this specialty is usually enjoyed with a side of lemon wedges and a Mediterranean salad. A glass of red wine also accompanies it nicely.

Best Places To Visit in Jumilla

Jumilla Castle, Visit one of the Top 100 attractions of Spain

Jumilla Castle is a symbol of the city that bears its name. The castle's earliest defences were built during the Bronze Age, and the fortress grew over the years. San Fernando captured the castle in 1241, and a year later, Alfonso X the Wise ordered the construction of a chapel within the stronghold walls. The castle was taken over by the Crown of Aragon in 1294, and the villagers were required to seek the new monarch for permission to visit the shrine. Currently, the castle is in great shape, and tours and events can be organized on its grounds.

The Beauty of Sierra de La Pedrera in Jumilla

Sierra La Pedrera is a mountain range in Murcia region of Spain and one of the most interesting places to hike and explore.

The rock art in this shelter is an important part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some paintings date back to the Stone Age, while others are from later periods like Bronze Age. The site also features fossils of animals' footprints across the terrain which were deposited over a long period and it's also drought-prone. There is also the old cartwheel track on the old road between Jumilla and Ontur, as well as a quarry that operated during the 15th and 16th centuries called Puntal de la Librería. It is believed that the following path is an old cattle road. This could have been the case since 1800 BC which would date back to the Bronze Age time. Along this winding path are rock carvings of La Pedrera.

Sierra La Pedrera is full of diverse wildlife and beautiful views which will fascinate you. Get up close and personal with this incredible wildlife reserve!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jumilla Wine Region