A Guide to the Best Wine Regions in Spain
Spain is renowned in the traveling world as a haven of Mediterranean weather, luscious cuisine and fascinating history that draws in countless tourists. But one of the most alluring features of this country is its extensive and elaborate winemaking traditions. Spain is one of the world’s top wine-producing countries, combining centuries of tradition with modern innovations to create the most splendid vintage.
In this guide, we showcase the best wine regions in Spain that you absolutely have to visit. Throughout the guide, we highlight 6 wine regions in Spain, detailing everything you need to know about them and their delectable productions. For each destination, we also provide some insight into other things to do to make your vino vacation spectacular.
Wine Regions in Spain: An Overview
Spain’s viticultural offering is fueled by a variety of different wine regions, each offering its own unique terroir, grape varieties and wine-making methods. From the sunny Spanish vineyards in the south to the rugged northern hills, Spanish wine regions can be found all over the country. Before you go wine tasting in Spain, it’s important to understand how the local geography has influenced winemaking.
In the north, regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero are celebrated for their bold red wines crafted from indigenous grape varieties like Tempranillo. Conversely, the picturesque landscapes of Priorat and Penedès are renowned for their bold reds and sparkling Cavas, respectively.
Whether you want to delve into historic wine cellars or enjoy a tasting under the coastal sun, each wine region in Spain offers a distinct experience for visitors. We explore each of these top Spanish wine regions below.

The Best Wine Regions in Spain
If it’s your first time wine tasting in Spain then you might want to select just one region to explore, as you might find yourself overwhelmed by the immense offering of the country. More seasoned wine travelers may wish to visit multiple Spanish wine regions on their visit, savoring the unique differences between each destination’s wines.
Regardless of how you intend to complete your Spanish wine vacation, there are certain regions that stand out above the rest. In this section, you will find a detailed review of the top wine regions in Spain with details about the wines produced and the top wineries.
Rioja
Located in northern Spain, Rioja is one of the most famous Spanish wine regions. This iconic region is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast visiting Spain. Plus, the intriguing culture and idyllic landscape of Rioja are the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable tour of wineries in Spain.
Rioja is celebrated across the world for its rich red wines made from local Tempranillo grapes. The flavors are elegant yet bold, which will appeal to visitors who prefer complex profiles in their wine. From the classic Reservas to modern expressions of Tempranillo, Rioja wines captivate the palate with their complexity and depth.
Aside from perfect vintage, Rioja offers an intriguing blend of tradition and culture. When visiting Rioja, travelers can explore historic Spanish wineries which are known locally as bodegas. After exploring verdant vineyards and taking in the immaculate views of the picturesque valleys, you can spend an evening savoring the delights of Spanish cities like Laguardia and Haro.

Jerez
Nestled in the southernmost part of Spain, Andalucia has a complex winemaking heritage that dates back centuries. This region in Spain enjoys a warm climate and boasts chalky soil that gives its wines a unique flavor. Andalucia is known for producing sweet, fortified sherry wines and Jerez is the epicenter of this tradition.
Exploring Jerez while touring different wine regions in Spain gives visitors the opportunity to try a wide range of sherry styles. Most sherry in this region is made from the Palomino grape variety, but different aging and blending methods contribute to these different types of Spanish wines. In terms of sherry to try while visiting Jerez; Fino is drier and Oloroso is very rich, so there is something for every taste.
There are so many incredible things you can do alongside an Andalusian wine tour. Visitors can delve into labyrinthine cellars filled to the brim with oak barrels and enjoy a captivating glimpse into sherry production. Likewise, you can visit nearby Spanish cities like Seville and Cadiz to make the most of your time.
Ribera del Duero
Our next best wine region in Spain can be found along the Duero River in Castilla y León. Ribera del Duero is another province in Spain known for red wine and, like Rioja, utilizes the Tempranillo grape variety. This is one of the best wine regions to visit in Spain as you can sample remarkable wines as well as marvel at the dramatic landscapes.
The climate and high altitude of this region in Spain contribute to the intense flavors of its wines, creating robust and concentrated notes. While wine tasting in Ribera del Duero, take note of the firm tannins and powerful flavors in each sip. With such high-quality wines, you may be surprised to learn that Ribera del Duero is much younger compared to other Spanish wine regions and has become quite the competitor for red wines.
Travelers can visit Ribera del Duero to experience its stunning landscapes, tour prestigious wineries, and indulge in wine and food pairings. We highly recommend pairing a local red with regional specialities like roasted lamb for the ultimate indulgent experience. What makes this wine region in Spain even more appealing is its proximity to Madrid, which is just 2 hours away so you can easily visit this region on a day trip.

Utiel-Requena
For our next top Spanish wine region, we’ll be heading to the east coast to the stunning environs of Valencia. Utiel-Requena is not as famous as other wine regions, but its inland climate and arid summers are the perfect conditions for cultivating grapes. As a result, the region has produced award-winning wines that beckon to the most intrepid wine connoisseurs.
Valencia’s winemaking tradition dates back to the Neolithic Ages, so it’s one of the best wine regions in Spain to learn more about the country’s viticultural history. Bobal is the indigenous grape variety of the region and produces wines with deep colors and robust tannins. Younger wines from Utiel-Requena are more fruity whereas those that have been aged have a complex bouquet, perfect for discerning travelers.
On a visit to Utiel-Requena, travelers can enjoy wine tastings al-fresco at the finest wineries, with the lush vineyard-dotted landscapes providing a breathtaking background. There are also other adventures to be had in the region, like visiting Albufera Natural Park to experience the natural beauty or shopping in bustling markets to rub shoulders with the friendly locals.
Rias-Baixas
Located in Galicia in northwest Spain, Rias-Baixas is an emerging Spanish wine region that is celebrated for its immaculate white wines. The Atlantic climate of Rias-Baixas is cooler than other wine regions in Spain, which gives the wine a much fresher finish with vibrant acidity. Not only can you relish the delightful white wine in this region, but its coastal setting means you can dine on the most succulent seafood for an unforgettable culinary experience.
The crisp and aromatic wines of Rias-Baixas owe their character to the indigenous Albariño grape variety. Visitors will notice that these Spanish wines have notes of citrus and minerals, creating a unique tasting experience. Albariño grapes have become so well-loved that they are considered the flagship Spanish white grape variety outside of Spain, so you can rest assured that you’ll find these wines delicious.
While visiting Rias-Baixas, travelers can wander through lush Spanish vineyards and soak up the coastal charm of the region. You can even embark on cultural pursuits and visit top attractions in Spain like Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, which is a famous finishing point for pilgrimages and shocks visitors with its striking minarets.

Penedès
Located in Catalonia, Penedès is known for producing a diverse range of wines, including sparkling Cava, still white wines, and red wines primarily made from Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is often considered to be one of the oldest wine regions in Europe, allowing visitors to embrace the rich history of the landscape with every wine they taste.
Penedès is synonymous with Cava, a sparkling Spanish wine similar to Champagne and Prosecco. The crisp wines in this region are typically made from local grape varieties like Xarel-lo and Macabeo, which tickle the palate with their superb acidity. The local terrier is characterized by an inviting Mediterranean climate and diverse soil types, which gives the region’s Cavas their distinctive flavor.
Penedès is the heart of Spain’s Cava production, with many wineries offering tours and tastings of their sparkling wines. Visitors can tour the underground cellars and watch as the sparkling wines are crafted with precision and care. Travelers should visit Penedès to explore its vineyard-dotted landscapes, learn about Cava production methods and enjoy wine tastings paired with Catalan cuisine.

Spanish Wine Tasting Tours
The best way to learn more about wine in Spain and see all the stunning vineyards and cellars is to embark on a private wine-tasting tour. With a wine-tasting tour, you are able to try a great variety of Spanish wine types, from crisp Cava to robust reds.
At Premier Tours & Travel, we provide a fabulous range of Spanish wine tours that allow travelers to delve into the heart of this historic tradition. Whether you want to enjoy farm-to-table dining or visit the most respected wineries in Spain, our tours guarantee your satisfaction.
A great option for travelers looking to experience all of Spain’s wine offerings is our Cuisine, Culture & Wine of San Sebastián, Rioja & Madrid tour. On this 10-day tour of Spain, travelers are accompanied by expert guides and a talented chef, who will take you on a journey through Spanish wine country. Experience Spain like you never have before and explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites between vineyard visits and museum tours.
Likewise, our Andalusia & Madrid tour gives travelers 10 perfect days in southern Spain, made all the more special by the expert chefs who will guide you through the culinary wonders of the region.
Summary
Overall, the diverse wine regions of Spain allow travelers to embark on an enchanting journey of tradition and heritage. From the iconic red wines of Rioja to the crisp Cavas of Penedès, each wine region in Spain showcases its terroir and culture through its fine vintage. Whether you want to explore historic bodegas or sip wine while taking in panoramic views of fruiting vineyards, the best Spanish wine regions are certain to captivate your senses.
Does an Iberian wine tour sound like the perfect vacation? Contact Premier Tours & Travel now to start planning your bespoke itinerary for the ultimate custom-made vacation experience.
FAQs
How many wine regions does Spain have?
There are over 70 distinct wine regions in Spain, each with its own unique grape varieties and winemaking methods. These regions span the length and breadth of Spain, from the mountainous north to the sun-drenched south.
What is the most popular wine in Spain?
The most popular wine in Spain is undoubtedly Rioja, hailing from the north. This region has long been considered one of the most prestigious wine regions in Spain, so much so that it is a denominación de origen calificada, which is Spain’s top-quality wine designation. The only other wine region in Spain to share this designation is Priorat.