Utiel-Requena

Utiel-Requena: Valencia's Rising Star in Wine

Nestled northwest of Valencia, Spain, Utiel-Requena (pronounced oo-tyel re-kay-na) is a Denominación de Origen (DO) carving its niche in the Spanish wine scene. Established in 1971, the region boasts a long viticultural history dating back to the 7th century BC. Utiel-Requena is known for its unique blend of Mediterranean climate and continental influences, resulting in a diverse range of wines.

The Reign of Bobal:

The star grape of Utiel-Requena is undoubtedly Bobal, a native red grape variety. Thriving in the region's warm days, cool nights, and limestone-rich soils, Bobal produces wines with vibrant acidity, bold tannins, and distinctive flavors of dark fruits, violets, and black pepper. While Bobal dominates, other grape varieties are permitted in the region, including:

• Red Grapes: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah all play supporting roles, adding complexity and diversity to blends or single-varietal expressions.

• White Grapes: Macabeo, Merseguera, Chardonnay, Parellada, Verdejo, Moscatel de grano menudo, and Sauvignon Blanc are all allowed, but white wines represent a very small portion of Utiel-Requena's production.

Main Wineries of Utiel-Requena:

With over 80 wineries scattered across the region, Utiel-Requena offers a range of producers, from historic family-run estates to modern, innovative wineries. Here are a few of the leading names:

• Bodegas Vega-Infante: A prestigious winery known for its commitment to Bobal and producing high-quality red wines with aging potential.

• Bodegas Cojón del Diablo: This innovative winery crafts a range of Bobal wines, showcasing the grape's versatility and pushing boundaries with bold experimentation.

• Bodegas Cherubino: A family-owned winery with a long history, known for its traditional winemaking techniques and elegant expressions of Bobal.

• Bodegas Vicente Gandia: This large producer offers a diverse range of Utiel-Requena wines, from approachable Bobal styles to single-varietal expressions of international grapes.

• Bodegas Nodus: A modern winery focused on sustainable viticulture, crafting expressive and characterful Bobal wines with minimal intervention.

Exploring the offerings from these wineries allows you to discover the unique personality of Bobal and the diverse styles emerging from Utiel-Requena.

Beyond the Grape:

Utiel-Requena offers more than just exceptional wines. The region boasts stunning landscapes with rolling vineyards, charming villages steeped in history, and medieval castles. Explore the beautiful scenery and delve into the region's rich cultural heritage. Don't forget to savor the local cuisine, featuring hearty rice dishes like paella, cured meats, and regional cheeses, which perfectly complement a glass of Utiel-Requena wine.

With its unique grape varieties, dedication to quality, and focus on innovation, Utiel-Requena is a region on the rise in the Spanish wine scene. Exploring this up-and-coming region promises a delightful journey for wine enthusiasts seeking something new and exciting.