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The Valdepenas region is a wine-producing region in southern Castilla-La Mancha, central Spain. It borders Castilla-La Mancha on all sides. The region was originally part of the province of Toledo, but in 1833 it became its own province. The main wine variety produced in this area is the Monastrell grape, which is used to produce red wines and rosés. Valdepeñas, Spain is filled with endless options for wine-tasting and tours. Whether a casual day on the town or an in-depth exploration, this place has it all.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Valdepeñas Wine Region!

Where is the Valdepeñas Wine Region

Valdepenas is in southern Castilla-La Mancha, central Spain. It is located in the Manchego comarca and is surrounded by La Mancha.

History of Valdepeñas Wine Region

Archaeologists have found wine production artifacts as far back as the 4th century B.C. in Valdepeñas.  Castilla y León is famous for its wine and has a tradition of making wines from ancient Roman winemaking. Valdepeñas quickly made a name for itself as wine production expanded during the Middle Ages. At its height, it was one of Spain's most productive wine-producing regions.

The medieval Caliphate of Toledo allowed wine producers in Valdepeñas to continue making wine when it was under Muslim control, which is something very few other states have done. Valdepeñas wines became increasingly popular after the Reconquista, when they were shipped to Madrid and other Spanish provinces.

Valdepeñas' wine exports continued to grow- by 1861, when the first trains arrived in Spain, the region was ready to effectively use this new mode of transport. In fact, the Valdepeñas-Madrid track was given the name of "Tren de Vino" (Wine Train) because it transported wine from Valdepeña to faraway places. The railroad allowed for exporting wine to countries in the Philippine Islands and South America.

Valdepeñas remains to this day the outstanding wine region of Spain. Wine producers use modern equipment and introduce innovative techniques in the wine production process.

Terrior of Valdepeñas

Around Valdepeña it mainly consists of hills and mountains, Valdepeñas is located on a plain. The mountains surrounding Valdepeña have a good influence on its climate. Protected from the Mediterranean Sea, the climate of Valdepeñas is continental. The soil also has good moisture retention properties. The topsoil of the region is not deep and quite pebbly due to the high lime content in the region. It's ideal for the grapes to thrive under these conditions.

Valdepeñas Wine Characteristics

The continental climate of Valdepeñas has traditionally encouraged growers to prioritize grape varieties, which can tolerate high temperatures, drought and occasional frost. While several white wine grape varieties are permitted by DO regulations, airén (sometimes called valdepeñera here) is the most commonly planted. Macabeo, chardonnay, verdejo, sauvignon blanc.

Tempranillo is the most popular red wine grape variety. Tempranillo accounts for nearly 90% of Valdepeñas red wine grapes and other popular varieties are cabernet sauvignon, garnacha, syrah, and petit verdot.

Cencibel is one of the original red wine grape varieties and it's been clear for a long time that it has a strong reputation among them. In fact, according to the DO's regulations, wines that have the Valdepeñas seal must be at least 25% from this particular variety. White and red varietals of Valdepeñas come together to make claretes here. Cencibel grapes are used to make a light red wine and people are buying and wanting more of this grape variety.

Food to pair with Valdepeñas Wine

Perdiz escabechada

Perdiz escabechada is a traditional Spanish dish, It can be prepared with combination of onions, carrots, garlic and white wine vinegar. Besides white wine vinegar and dry white wine are used in the dish. Olive oil, pimentón or paprika make it tasty.

The partridges are seasoned with salt and tied up with string, then they are browned in olive oil in a cazuela pot. Once the onions, carrots and garlic have softened, the pot is transferred to an oven to cook the sauce. To make the marinade, whisk together vinegar, wine, water, bay leaves, thyme, pimentón and peppercorns. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Place fillets in marinade and allow to cook 45-60 minutes before serving. The dish is simmered until the partridges become tender. Once they're done, it's left to cool and served at room temperature. Alternatively, it can be refrigerated and served cold if desired. Everybody likes this dish, while it tastes even better with Valdepenas wine.

 

Places to visit near Valdepeñas

1. Iglesia de Santiago el Mayor

From the 15th century, its three covers stand out in Gothic, flamboyant and other Baroque styles. The building is 60 meters long by 16 meters wide. The floor plan is that of a Latina cross with a short transept and various chapels on its sides, the apse being hexagonal with a central niche - and beneath this raised choir on two carpal arches.

2. Virgen del Monte

The Sanctuary of the Virgen del Monte is a complex in which the iconic Marian image. The property includes a very old hermitage, one of the first to be constructed on the island, dating back over 1200 years. It's 12th century, later followed by another one built at the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

3. Ermita Virgen del Espino

The Chapel of Our Lady of Thorns is one of the oldest buildings in Montilla and has been standing for over 800 years. When it was first built, it had another name - Santa María del Castillo or Nuestra Señora del Castillo. It is very beautiful and must be visited.

Frequently asked questions about Valdepeñas Wine

What is the most common grape variaty in Valdepeñas?

Tempranillo is the most popular grape variety for red wines in Valdepeñas.

How many wineries are in Valdepeñas?

There are 17 wineries in Valdepeñas.

Does Valdepenas have good wine?

Yes, Valdepenas have good wine. One of the wine regions in Spain that continues to stand out today is Valdepenas. Wine producers create their product using modern techniques and introduce new and innovative methods during the production process.


Map of Wineries in Valdepeñas

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Experiences in Valdepeñas

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

Wineries in Valdepeñas