The Main Spanish White Grape Varieties

Spain is full of indigenous grape varieties that give Spanish white wines their unique character. Among the most emblematic, we find:

Albariño: originating from Galicia, it produces fresh and aromatic wines with notes of citrus and white flowers.

Verdejo: the flagship grape variety of Rueda, it produces lively, slightly herbaceous wines with aromas of green apple and tropical fruits.

Macabeo (Viura): used both for still whites from Rioja and for the production of Cava, it brings freshness and balance.

Godello: an increasingly sought-after grape variety for its richness and beautiful minerality.

Xarello and Parellada: in association with Macabeo, they form the base of the famous Spanish Cava.

Airén: the most widely cultivated white grape variety in Spain due to its resistance to high temperatures. It is mainly used for the production of Brandy de Jerez.

The Great Spanish White Wine Regions

Spain is often associated with red wines, but some regions stand out for their exceptional whites:

Rías Baixas (Galicia): kingdom of Albariño, this region produces fresh and iodized Spanish white wines, perfect with seafood.

Rueda (Castile and León): renowned for its expressive and aromatic Verdejos.

Rioja: known for its reds, the region also produces Viura whites, sometimes aged in barrels for more complexity.

Penedès (Catalonia): heart of Cava production, but also of still whites based on Xarello and Macabeo.

Jerez (Andalusia): land of the famous Sherry, where Andalusian white wines take on a unique dimension thanks to aging under a veil of yeast.

Two Spanish Whites with Strong Character: Cava and Sherry

It's impossible to talk about Spanish white wine without mentioning these two unique styles:

Cava: the Spanish alternative to Champagne, made using the traditional method. Fresh and sparkling, it wonderfully accompanies aperitifs or tapas. It is also an excellent ingredient for cocktails such as Agua de Valencia (Cava, gin, vodka, and orange juice) or Cava Sangria (Cava, orange liqueur, fresh fruits, and spices).

Sherry: a fortified wine with multiple facets, from dry and saline Fino to more complex Amontillado, to sweet and luscious Pedro Ximénez. A monument of Spanish wine heritage!

Food and Wine Pairings: What to Drink with Spanish White Wine?

The diversity of Spanish white wines allows for a multitude of gastronomic pairings:

An Albariño pairs perfectly with seafood and grilled fish.

A Verdejo from Rueda is ideal with fresh cheeses or a summer salad.

A Cava enhances tapas, fried foods, and even spicy Asian dishes.

A Fino Sherry is perfect with Iberian ham, while a Pedro Ximénez wonderfully accompanies a chocolate dessert or blue cheese.

A white wine made from Macabeo or Airén will be an excellent companion to an authentic Spanish paella, highlighting its notes of spices and seafood.

Whether you're a fan of fresh and lively wines or more complex vintages, Spanish white wine has something to seduce all palates. Discover our selection and let yourself be tempted by a journey to the heart of Spanish vineyards!

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