5 reasons to visit Utiel-Requena in autumn: the land of Valencian wine🍷
If you were to ask any wine-loving person When is the best time to visit Utiel-Requena?, I would definitely say September or October.
That's why we tell you 5 reasons to visit Utiel-Requena in autumn, A special season that comes at the height of the grape harvest and when the landscapes are transformed. It is the most eagerly awaited time of the year for winegrowersEverything is ready to harvest and give life to your most precious creations.
Utiel-Requena is a corner of Spain, located in the inland part of the Valencian Community, where the tradition and passion for wine have been intertwined since ancient times. It is considered a Protected Designation of Origin for the uniqueness of its wines and its precious history.
In the inland area of Utiel-Requena, Wine is not just a drink; it's a way of life. The locals have turned it into art, and each winery is a canvas on which the most exquisite flavours and aromas are painted, ranging from vine-dotted hillsides to centuries-old cellars.
In the summer, the sun caresses the vines, and in autumn, the leaves are dyed in gold and red colours, creating a visual spectacle that you can only experience at this time of year.
But before we give you the 5 reasons why you should visit Utiel-Requena in autumn, we will tell you two details so you can get to know her a little better...
Its tradition is one of the oldest in the world
The wine tradition of this Valencian region dates back to millennia: archaeological remains show that wine production in Utiel-Requena is among the oldest in the world, dating back to the Iberian period, This means that there has been a strong winemaking tradition for more than a century. 2,400 years.
The following are still preserved in perfect condition Utiel-Requena caves, A historical treasure that has played a key role in the production and storage of wine over the centuries. Known locally as «cuevas bodegas» or «underground cellars», they are an integral part of the region's rich winemaking tradition. For centuries, local wine-growing families have dug these caves in the clay and limestone soil of the region to create underground spaces ideal for wine storage.
The cavities offered optimal conditions for wine ageing. By maintaining a constant and cool temperature throughout the year, which is essential for the proper maturation of the wine. In addition, the humidity is ideal for preserving the barrels and bottles in perfect condition.
And they are still in use!
The Bobal grape is unique in its kind
In the land of Utiel-Requena a very special grape variety growsBobal. But, what makes it so desirable?
The Bobal grape is unique to this region and is renowned for its resilience and capacity to adapt to the extreme climatic conditions of the area.
Wines made with Bobal have intense flavours and rich. It is a very productive vine due to the size of its clusters, It is 3 to 5 times larger than the Cabernet grape. Its aroma is fresh, giving excellent rosés and increasingly better reds and aged wines.
Although the 80% of red production in the region is due to the authentic Bobal variety, you can also find varieties such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot or Macabeo, among others.
🔸 Curiosity
The area is currently in the process of preparing its candidacy for the D.O. Utiel-Requena territory to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site: both for its incredible antiquity, for its continuity over the centuries and for its unique indigenous variety such as the Bobal grape.
In short, September and October are the best months to venture out and get to know this area better, which is why here we give you 5 reasons to understand why you should visit Utiel-Requena in autumn, considered one of the best places to visit in the world. most beautiful regions of Spain:
1.- Grape harvest
These months mark the beginning of the grape harvest season, which means that you can witnessing and participating in the collection grape picking in the vineyards. It is an exceptional experience to taste fresh grapes directly from the vine and to tread the grapes yourself!
2.- Ideal climate
The weather in Utiel-Requena during September and October is usually warm and dry, but not as scorching as the summer months. Temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities such as vineyard tours and winery visits.
3.- Autumn colours
The landscape in September and October is changing as the leaves of the the vines are coloured in gold and red, creating a spectacular setting for exploring the vineyards and the surrounding area. The region becomes especially picturesque during this season.
4.- Grape Harvest Festivities
Many wineries and villages in the region celebrate grape harvest festivals and celebrations during these months. These celebrations often include cultural events, music, dancing and, of course, wine tasting. It is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the hospitality of the region.
Fewer crowds
Unlike the summer months, September and October tend to have fewer tourists, which means that you can enjoy a more relaxed and relaxing holiday. quieter experience without the summer crowds.
Don't miss this time of the year and discover everything that the Valencian wine 👇🏽
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With the code valenciavip you will get a 15% discount 😉