Profile of Wine Region, Somontano
Wineries in Somontano Region
Located on a high plateau in the mountainous area of Huesca (known for its ski resorts), the
wine region of Somontano lies at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains. The name Somontano
actually means "Under the Mountain". The region is gorgeous with green fields and hills,
wildflowers, medieval hamlets, and lonely hilltop monasteries. The principal wine town is
Barbastro, with most of the wineries close by. The climate in this part of Spain is continental
with snowy winters and hot summer months, and extremely sudden changes in temperature when the
seasons change. There are roughly 2,700 hours of direct sunlight per year, optimum growing
conditions. There are about 3,000 ha under vine registered by the locale regulatory council,
and the region is dominated by less than 5 top wineries (namely Enate, Bodegas Pirineos and
Viñas del Vero).
Traditionally, the indigenous grapes used created very rustic wines (local grapes include Moristel,
Parraleta for red wine, and Macabeo and Alcañon for white wine). These traditional styles of wine
have been completely and utterly uprooted and replaced with the new wave of modern winemaking,
using many international varietals (including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and
Gewurztraminer) and Spanish noble grapes such as Tempranillo. The key players in this wine region
are the above mentioned wineries who have invested millions in ultra modern wineries, star
winemakers and wine tourism infrastructure. Whereas in other parts of Spain it can be impossible
to visit wineries, Enate, Bodegas Pirineos and Viñas del Vero have set out to be main attractions
on Spanish wine tours. The region offers the gourmet tourist a complete package: cozy restaurants
tucked away in romantic, historic villages offering the excellent local cuisine (high on game,
artisan cheeses, rich vegetable dishes and homemade sausage chorizos); stunning modern wineries
who open their doors to happy, wine loving visitors; and wonderful landscapes and scenery.
Key Attractions in Somontano Wine Regions
Alquézar
Wonderfully preserved village dating back to the 9th century, when it was founded
by the Moors. The name in fact was called "Al-Qasr" by the Moors, which means "Fortress" in
Arabic. The hamlet is located in a spectacular setting, within the Parque Natural de la Sierra y
Cañones de Guara, one of the most beautiful natural parks in Europe with protected halcons,
eagles, and a variety of animals, flora and fauna. The village has a superb 16th century
Colegiata, and there is a fantastic small, charming hotel where we will be featuring on
our wine tours, with breathtaking views into the valley.
Castillo de Loarre
Ancient castle fortress, which was founded on the site of a Roman castle in
the 11th century and later remodelled by Sancho I of Aragón who placed the entire complex under
the rule of the Augustine monks. The castle lies in the countryside now, away from any towns, but
is imposing and impressive and boasts a Romanesque church inside the castle walls.
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Wine Tour Somontano
Professional wine tour of Spain's most exclusive wine estates and wine regions including Ribera del Duero, la Rioja, Penedes, Priorat and along with lesser-known appellations like Somontano and Txacoli. Luxury accommodation, fine dining and unique excursions complete the wine tour...