In Focus

On the wine trail: Spain

Head to Spain which is the second largest producer of wine in the world, on an exotic wine trail.

Spain is a colourful country. Its inhabitants, customs and languages as well as its foods and wines are representatives of the regions in this vast diversity. The food and wine serve as an emblematic slogan presenting Spain as a memorable, friendly, hospitable and diverse country, which stretches out its hand to offer a glass of wine and a table laden with food to welcome and celebrate the arrival of a stranger.

Spain is a world class producer of wines, both in quality and quantity. The superb and extensive range of wines available has enabled Spain to become the second largest producer in the world. Its tradition, care, refinement and renewal are some key factors that have placed the country at the forefront of the world's wine producers. Spanish wine producers have managed to apply a perfect combination of modern production techniques and expertise inherited from thousands of years that Spain has been making this nectar. The end result is a selection of wines that boast unrivalled quality and acknowledged international prestige.

Spain has sixty different wine making districts. Among these, mention must be made of the Rioja wines, which, on the merit of their bouquet, taste and body, have won international acclaim. Other highly prized seals of origin are Ribera del Duero, Penedes, Somontano and La Mancha, all of which have recently witnessed great advances in the quality of their wines. Sherry from Vino de Jerez, is a fortified Andulusian wine which enjoys great international prestige, particularly in Anglo-Saxon countries, and comes in range of varieties to suit different tastes like, Fino - dry and light; usually drunk chilled; Manzanilla - a pale, dry Fina from Sanlucar de barrameda; Amontillado - amber coloured full dry or semi dry, Dulce (sweet) and Oloroso (dark and full-bodied), Cava - fine sparkling wine, made by the champagne method and comes from the northwest region - in the Penedès area of Catalonia.

Exploring wine routes is the perfect way to discover the natural beauty of these regions and their monumental heritage. At the same time you can delight in their liquid delicacies and enjoy their fascinating culture. Many of Spain's leading vineyards are open to visitors. Quite a few are centuries old and boast an extraordinary architectural richness, while others even include interesting collections of art relating to the wine culture. It is a privilege to enter this world, accompanied by those who have such a deep understanding of it. They will show you how to fully appreciate it, take you around the facilities, the vineyards, and the production process to reveal the secrets of wine tasting.

One must experience these numerous routes that enable one to discover the history, character and culture of the land, through a myriad of sensations, aromas and flavours.

Courtesy: TRAC Representations (India) on behalf of National Tourist Office of Spain