The wines from the Montilla-Moriles region are not far behind those from Jerez. A very similar range is produced here, including "finos", "olorosos", "amontillados", and sweet wines of excellent quality and character, provided by the Pedro Ximénez grape, which is widely grown in this area. There is a good variety of sweet, dense, and aromatic wines that are popular with those who have a sweet tooth.
A tour of this area can prove very attractive, as there are two quite different landscapes; the hills of the Subbética range, considered a national park, and the fertile plains of the Cordovan countryside. In the former, there are some attractive towns, like Baena and Cabra. The other towns that produce wine under the Montilla-Moriles Designation of Origin are Doña Mencía, Montalbán, Montilla, Moriles, Nueva Carteya, Puente Genil, Aguilar de la Frontera, La Rambla, Fernán Núñez, Lucena, Montemayor, and Santaella.
This area is celebrated for its exceptional wines, which are produced using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. The region is particularly famous for its Pedro Ximénez grapes, which are used to create a variety of wines, from young whites to rich, sweet dessert wines.
The Montilla Moriles Denomination of Origin (DO) was established in 1932, making it one of the oldest in Spain. The vineyards are situated in a unique terroir, characterized by its chalky soils and warm, dry climate, which are ideal for grape cultivation. The winemakers in this region are dedicated to preserving the traditional methods of winemaking while also embracing modern techniques to enhance the quality of their wines.
Visitors to Montilla Moriles can enjoy a range of wine-related activities, including tours of historic wineries, wine tastings, and educational sessions on the winemaking process. The region's wines are known for their distinctive flavors and aromas, which reflect the unique characteristics of the terroir. In addition to its wines, Montilla Moriles offers a rich cultural experience, with its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and delicious local cuisine.
The Montilla-Moriles region has a long history of wine production that dates back to Roman times. Over the centuries, the region has developed a unique wine identity, with a strong influence from Arab and Jewish traditions. Montilla-Moriles wines are known for their intensity and complexity, with a wide range of styles that reflect the diversity of the region's terroir.
The Pedro Ximénez grape is the most widely grown grape variety in the Montilla-Moriles region. This grape is known for its ability to produce wines with a high sugar content, resulting in sweet, dense wines with a strong aromatic character. The Pedro Ximénez grape is also used to produce a variety of other wine styles, including finos, amontillados, and olorosos.
If you're interested in exploring the Montilla-Moriles region and other fascinating places in Andalusia, we recommend a car hire in Malaga. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover the rich cultural and gastronomic offerings of the region.