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Wine 101: Andalucia wine regions
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Wine in Andalucia, Spain is produced in four Denominación de Origen (DO) areas. DO's are similar to France's appellations. In addition to these four main regions, there are several smaller wine districts and independent wine-makers.
The four regions are named for ancient and traditional Spanish wines that date back between the 15th and 17th centuries. In 1935, these wines were recognized as the first quality wines in Spain.
- Condado de Huelva: Almost 90 percent of Huelva's wines are made with Zalema. Zalema is a white grape indigenous to the region. Condado de Huelva produces a variety of dry and sweet white wines. It is also home to Raigal, Andalucia's only sparkling wine.
- Jerez: Jerez, a town located in the province of Cádiz, is where the English word for "Sherry" comes from. Sherry was the first wine to be exported from Spain. Most went to England where there was a demand for sweeter Sherries. In Spain, drier versions of Sherry are preferred. The conditions of the soil and the fact that it is the only wet part of Andalucia make Jerez the only area where Sherry can be grown in the region. The Sherries are made mostly from the Palomino grape which produces dry Sherries thanks to the climate and soil conditions.
- Montilla-Moriles: This region is located in the south of the Córdoba province. The wines produced there are similar to sherry but have not become as well known as wines from other regions, spefically in comparison to the Sherries of Jerez. Wines produced in Montilla-Moriles are typically much rougher than the smooth Sherries of Jerez.
- Málaga and Sierras de Málaga: This region is located in the Province of Málaga and is known for its traditional sweet wines. These wines are meant to be served as after dinner wines or dessert wines. The wines produced in this region are full-bodied. Most are produced from Málaga, Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel Morisco grapes.
For more information on the wine regions of Andalucia, click here.
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