The old saying “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” is a simple yet powerful reminder to embrace local customs. However, when visiting Spain, many travelers still opt for the familiar taste of French wines, overlooking the country’s diverse and exceptional offerings.
I recently had an eye-opening experience while dining at a high-end restaurant in Barcelona. As I scanned the wine list, I was struck by the overwhelming presence of French selections. Intrigued, I asked the sommelier why this was the case. She explained that many visitors, especially Americans, tend to gravitate toward French wines because they are more familiar with them. While I understood the appeal of well-known French labels, I couldn’t help but think of how much Spain’s rich and varied wine culture was being overlooked.
Spain’s wine regions offer a deep connection to its heritage, and there’s so much to discover, from the renowned reds of La Rioja to the refreshing whites of Rías Baixas. Here are seven standout Spanish grape varieties that will help you fully experience the essence of Spain’s wine culture.
Tempranillo — Spain’s iconic grape
Spain’s most famous grape variety, tempranillo, is grown in regions like Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Toro. This versatile grape adapts to different climates to produce bold reds and lighter styles. Tempranillo wines are rich in cherry, plum and blackberry flavors, with earthy undertones and a touch of spice. As the wine ages, it develops deeper notes of leather, tobacco and vanilla from oak aging.
Whether you’re sipping a fresh, fruit-forward tempranillo with some light tapas or a bolder, aged version with a hearty meal, this native grape can handle the rich, smoky flavors of Spanish cuisine with ease. It is a must try for any wine enthusiast visiting Spain.
Albariño — The Atlantic gem
The bright and zesty albariño is a white grape that perfectly captures the essence of Spain’s northwestern coastal terroirs. Known for its citrusy flavors, albariño typically features notes of lemon, lime and green apple, complemented by floral hints of jasmine and orange blossom. The wine’s crisp acidity and subtle minerality reflect the coastal influence of the Rías Baixas region, where sea breezes shape the grape’s character.
Albariño pairs well with seafood, particularly clams and seafood paella, balancing the saltiness of the dishes with its refreshing acidity and enhancing their freshness. Thanks to its versatility and refreshing nature, it’s also a fantastic addition to fish tacos, grilled vegetables and even some soft cheeses.
Bobal — The underrated classic
Predominantly found in the Utiel-Requena region of Valencia and parts of Castilla-La Mancha, bobal is an underrated red grape variety native to Spain. It has traditionally been used in blends. However, more winemakers in recent years have started bottling it as a single-varietal wine, showcasing its unique characteristics. Bobal wines are typically full-bodied with dark fruit flavors like blackberry, plum and black cherry, giving the wine a rich, fruit-driven character. These flavors are often complemented by earthy and herbal notes, with hints of spice and tobacco.
Bobal is an exciting grape for wine lovers seeking both power and elegance. It offers a perfect balance of richness and refreshing acidity that pairs well with food. It also complements grilled meats well, particularly lamb, beef and roast pork, along with chorizo and other spicy sausages.
The 3 musketeers — xarel-lo, parellada and macabeu
The trio of xarel-lo, parellada and macabeu form the backbone of Spain’s celebrated sparkling wine, Cava. Much like champagne, this wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, creating its signature bubbles and complex aromas. However, thanks to its warmer southern growing zone in the Penedès region near Barcelona, it often develops richer stone fruit notes, including apricots, nectarines and peaches. Prolonged aging can lead to nutty, almond and bready characteristics, rivaling some of the finest champagnes.
Cava’s effervescence, acidity and versatility make it an excellent match for various foods and occasions. It elevates everything, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations.
Sumoll — The best kept secret of Catalan wines
A lesser-known yet fascinating red grape variety, sumoll is native to Catalonia. Like many indigenous grapes, it was overshadowed during the 20th century wine boom, as more commercially viable and popular international varieties took precedence. In recent years, sumoll has made a remarkable comeback, as winemakers have rediscovered its potential and started to produce high-quality wines that capture the essence of the Penedès region. This revival is part of a broader movement in Spanish winemaking to embrace indigenous varieties that reflect the unique terroir of its regions.
Sumoll offers vibrant red fruit flavors like cherry, raspberry and strawberry, with a touch of tartness. It often carries herbal notes of thyme and rosemary, along with floral hints of violet. The wine has earthy undertones and minerality balanced by medium tannins and refreshing acidity. It offers a refreshing alternative to the more tannic, bold reds commonly found in Spain, which makes it appealing to casual drinkers and wine enthusiasts who want to try something different.
The last sip
Spain is a multifaceted wine region renowned for its ability to craft a vast range of styles, from crisp, refreshing whites and celebrated sparkling wines to rich, full-bodied reds with exceptional depth and complexity. When you find yourself in Spain or even at your local wine store, don’t just stick to what’s familiar — dare to explore the diverse and vibrant Spanish wines.
Each region offers unique flavors and stories. They craft wines to perfectly complement the country’s rich culinary traditions, which makes them a perfect match for each other, often better than any international varieties. So, step off the beaten path, embrace the local wine culture and discover the true essence of Spain in every sip. ¡Salud!
Javier Rocafort is a sommelier and wine tour guide in Barcelona. With a passion for showcasing Spain’s exceptional local wines, he offers immersive experiences highlighting the richness of Spanish wine and food culture at Uncorked Vines.