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Laderas del Genil is a wine-growing area located in the autonomous province of Granada, Spain. The region was previously known as Granada Sur-Oeste and received the status of Vino de la Tierra, a step below the DO status in Spanish wine categorization, in 2003. The name “Laderas del Genil” means “bank of the Genil” in Spanish. The temperature, as well as the quality of soil in which the grapes grow, are what distinguishes this historic region. Grapes are produced at their highest quality and have distinct characteristics that are not seen anyplace else in the world. The unique terrain and large range of vineyards will undoubtedly surprise you. Visiting this beautiful wine region is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You should definitely go!

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Where is the Laderas del Genil wine region?

Laderas del Genil is a subregion of the Andalusia region in the province of Granada in the southernmost part of Spain. The Genil river flows across the region, hence the name Laderas del Genil which means on the bank of the Genil in Spanish. The region is surrounded by the Torreperogil IGP from the Northeast, Cumbres del Guadalfeo from the east, and the Mediterranean sea from the south. The region is 123 km northeast of the city of Malaga, 267km east of Seville, and 443 km south of Madrid. 

History of the Laderas del Genil wine region

The viticulture in the Province of Granada dates back to Medival times and there are archaeological pieces of evidence that date back to Roman times. Even when the Arab rulers banned the production and sales of alcohol, the region still produced wines covertly. Today, the Laderas del Genil region has the most developed vineyards, and its climate and soil set it apart from other locations. The region was named Laderas del Genil in 2003 when granted Vino de la Tierra status. Before that, the region was known as Granada Sur-Oeste.

The terroir and geography of the Laderas del Genil wine region

Most of the vineyards in the Laderas del Genil wine region are located at a high altitude, up to 1000 meters above sea level. The soils, mostly slate based, retain moisture which is helpful as the region is in close proximity to the ocean with low rainfall. These soils are often deficient in organic matter, phosphorus, and nitrogen. They are generally shallow and quickly damaged by storms. They do, however, hold a lot of water. The cool sea breezes that flow across the region add an incomparable taste to the wines. This historic wine-growing area is distinguished by the terrain as well as the quality of the soil in which the grapes grow. Grapes are grown to the highest standards and have distinct features found nowhere else in the world.

Popular grape varieties from the Laderas del Genil wine region

Grenache and Tempranillo are the most dominant grape variety in the Laderas del Genil area. There are a lot of indigenous as well as imported grape varieties that are grown in the region. Grape varieties authorized in the region are as follows:

White grapes: Vijiriego, Macabeo, Pedro Ximénez, Palomino, Moscatel de Alejandría, Moscatel de Grano Menudo (or Morisca), Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Baladí Verdejo, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Torrontés, Albariño.

Red grapes: Garnacha, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot, Monastrell, Cabernet Franc, Romé.

Food to pair with Laderas del Genil wine 

Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a pleasant summer soup that is easy to make. Originated in the Iberian peninsula, this cold soup quickly gained popularity in other areas. This refreshing soup is enjoyed across Spain and Portugal. Crushed tomatoes, finely sliced cucumbers, onions, and peppers are combined in this salad, which is topped with croutons and vinegar. A lot of variation are currently available that depends on ingredients, texture, and thickness. This dish pairs well with the wine Laderas del Genil. 

Pinchitos

Pinchitos are basically grilled chicken, lamb, or hog meat strung on wooden sticks over charcoal. Spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon are commonly used to season the meat. This meal is filling in the summer, but it may also be served at any barbeque gathering.

Pinchitos is generally served with lemon wedges and bread on the side and is best accompanied by wine from Laderas del Genil.

Espinacas con garbanzos

Espinacas con garbanzos have various versions, but the most frequent ones include garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, paprika, vinegar, and cumin. This dish is a classic Spanish appetizer common in Seville, often consumed during the chilly winter, and is sometimes served with a fried piece of bread on the side. This dish is delicious and pairs nicely with Laderas del Genil wines.

Places to visit in the Laderas del Genil wine region

Jardines Bajos del Generalife

The New Gardens or Low Gardens were designed and built within a ten-year time frame, to portray a Muslim-style garden. The garden is located between the Alhambra and the Generalife palace and was added for the public. The garden was built in three sections. The garden resembling the Labyrinth garden was built near the Generalife palace in 1931. The Muslim-style garden designed by Prieto Moreno was added next to the first garden in 1951. 

Mirador de San Nicolás

The oldest district of Granada with a strong Moorish influence. The narrow, bumpy streets lead to the large, lively square with a breathtaking view of the Alhambra on the opposite side.

Carrera del Darro

The Carrera del Darro is one of the most beautiful walks in Granada and can be found on the right-hand side of the Darro river. The walk goes through a range of historical buildings and beautiful nature and has two bridges called Cabrera and Espinosa which cross over to Churra, another small neighborhood with its charm.

Frequently asked questions about Laderas del Genil

Where is the Laderas del Genil wine region located?

Laderas del Genil is a subregion of the Andalusia region located in the province of Granada in southern Spain. The Genil river runs through the area, thus the name Laderas del Genil, which translates to "on the banks of the Genil" in Spanish. The area is located 123 kilometers northeast of Malaga, 267 kilometers east of Seville, and 443 kilometers south of Madrid.

What are the most famous wineries in this region?

Bodegas Calvente

What are some of the best Laderas del Genil wines that people should try?

Bodegas H. Calvente 'Xate-O' Vino Blanco de la Tierra de Laderas del Genil, Spain
Bodega H. Calvente 'Laguin-da' Vino de la Tierra de Laderas del Genil, Spain

What are the different kinds of grapes that grow in the Laderas del Genil appellation?

The most common grape varieties in the Laderas del Genil region are Grenache and Tempranillo. There are several indigenous and imported grape varietals produced in the region. The following grape types are permitted in the region:

White varietals: Vijiriego, Macabeo, Pedro Ximénez, Palomino, Moscatel de Alejandría, Moscatel de Grano Menudo (or Morisca), Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Baladí Verdejo, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Torrontés, and Albariño.

Red varietals: Garnacha, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot, Monastrell, Cabernet Franc, and Romé.

What kind of wine is a Laderas del Genil?

Laderas del Genil wines are manufactured from grapes in a variety of styles, from dry to semi-sweet, young to mature. The color of red wines from Laderas del Genil is vivid and bright. The wines are dry and slightly tend towards the acidic scale due to the warm climate of the region. Overall, these wines are balanced with bold taste. These wines pair perfectly with beef, pasta veal, and poultry.

Map of Wineries in Laderas del Genil

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Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in Laderas del Genil