If you think Spanish wine stops at Rioja, you’re missing out. The Cádiz region in southern Andalusia offers a sun-drenched, sea-kissed selection of wines that might just surprise you. From the famous Sherry triangle to modern reds like Tintilla de Rota, this coastal corner is ready to fill your glass with something new. Let’s dive in!
🌞 Where is Cádiz – and what makes its wine special?
Cádiz is known not just for beaches and tapas, but for its Vinos de la Tierra de Cádiz, an official wine region since 2005. On about 1,000 hectares, grapes like Palomino, Pedro Ximénez, Syrah, and Moscatel thrive. The secret? A maritime climate with hot, dry summers and chalky soils that give the wines freshness and minerality.
🥂 White wine variety: From Sherry to Sauvignon
White wine lovers will be thrilled. The best-known grape is Palomino Fino, the base for Sherry, making dry, slightly salty wines with nutty notes. Also in the mix: aromatic varieties like Pedro Ximénez, Moscatel, and international favorites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
Whether you like it dry or sweet – you’ll find your happy glass here!
🍇 Red surprises: Tintilla & more
Red wines from Cádiz? Absolutely! Especially exciting is Tintilla de Rota, a native variety with bold character, similar to Graciano. Other highlights: Syrah, Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot. Many winemakers now work with small plots, harvest at night, and age in oak – resulting in full-bodied, elegant wines with Mediterranean flair.
🧭 Explore the Wine Route of Cádiz
In the mood for a road trip? Explore the Sherry triangle: Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and El Puerto de Santa María. In historic bodegas like González-Byass, Barbadillo, or Lustau, you’ll experience real Sherry heritage. Or check out modern projects like Muchada-Léclapart, a French-Andalusian duo making biodynamic Palomino wines.
🍽️ What to pair with these wines?
| Wine Style | Perfect Food Match |
|---|---|
| Fino / Manzanilla | Seafood, olives, salted almonds |
| Amontillado | Grilled vegetables, chicken, aged cheese |
| Pedro Ximénez | Blue cheese, dates, desserts |
| Red Wines | Iberian ham, lamb, game dishes |
🚀 Conclusion: Cádiz – a true gem for wine lovers
Cádiz is a treasure for those wanting to explore a different side of Spanish wine. With tradition (hello, Sherry!) and innovation (cheers, Tintilla!), you’ll find wines full of soul, sunshine, and flavor. Perfect for your next glass – whether on the terrace or with tapas.
👀 Feeling curious?
Try a dry Palomino or a bold Tintilla – and tell us what you think! Or plan your own trip along the Ruta del Vino y Brandy de Jerez. Cádiz awaits – in your glass and on your plate.
Visit historic and modern bodegas. Pair wines with seafood, Iberian ham, aged cheeses, and almond cake.