In Aragon, Spain, a light buzz is the essence of the local scenery.
One of the greatest joys of every trip to Spain is sampling its vast array of fine wines.
Aragon is the world's origin of Garnacha, boasting four renowned D.O. (Denominación Origine Controllata e Origine Controllata) regions. Its continental dry climate, significant diurnal temperature variations, and limestone mountain soils contribute to its highly distinctive wine styles.
Half of Aragon's vineyards are planted with old-vine Garnacha, among which Calatayud's old-vine Garnacha offers exceptional value.
When visiting Calatayud, Aragon, Spain, don't miss Bodegas San Alejandro, a benchmark D.O. winery—a true paradise for old-vine Garnacha lovers.
Established in 1962 by local farmers, the winery boasts nearly 1,000 hectares of hillside vineyards. Large tracts of century-old native Grenache vines thrive on steep slopes at altitudes of 800-1075 meters. The slate and gravel soils, combined with significant diurnal temperature variations, impart to the grapes intense fruit aromas and a unique minerality, representing the purest expression of the Carrataju terroir.
The winery specializes in native Grenache grapes.
The winery offers comprehensive wine tours, including guided tours of the vineyards and oak cellars, providing an immersive experience of terroir-inspired wines. 85% of its wines are exported overseas, making it a highly regarded Spanish hidden gem in the international market.
Actually, there are also small Grenache vineyards in Zaragoza, just across the river from the Pilar Cathedral.
When visiting the old town of Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain, you absolutely must check out Montal, a restaurant with over a century of history. Opened in 1919, this Renaissance-style palace restaurant, run by four generations of the family, is a local culinary landmark etched into the city's memory, offering a one-stop immersive experience of authentic Aragonese food and wine.
Located in Plaza San Felipe, the entire building, a retro stone palace, exudes an atmosphere of grandeur. The most striking feature is its professional wine cellar, hidden underground, boasting a comprehensive selection of wines from all Aragonese regions, including old-vine Grenache from Calataju, Carignana, and Somontano, as well as wines from select wineries across Spain.
The restaurant regularly hosts wine tasting dinners, preserving a century-old tradition and blending local ingredients, regional wines, and the city's history into a harmonious whole. For a truly immersive Aragonese experience, this is the place to be.