The Somontano Wine Route: at the foot of the mountains

04/05/2012

• anterior
• siguiente

In Somontano the vines enjoy exceptional conditions: planted at an altitude of 350 to 750 metres above sea-level, they are subject to dramatic temperature changes and a privileged climate, halfway between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, strongly influenced by the Pyrenees. The end result gives rise to a series of very singular red wines; fruity with a good balance between alcohol and acidity. The rosés boast vibrant colour, delicate aroma and smooth taste. The whites are famous for their fruitiness and delicate varietal aromas. Over its 30-year track record, DO Somontano has convincing earned its excellent reputation with flying colours.

While all wineries included in the Route offer visitors activities of all kinds, some are notable for their uniqueness. The Otto Bestué family has been engaged to viticulture since 1640, and the visit to this winery is a travel to the past. In contrast, Enate is a modern winery, with a functional architecture in which the only curved lines are those of the barrels, and where the light invades all facilities. Viñas del Vero is located in an old, typical state, where all kinds of activities related to the wine world take place; but its crown jewel is Bodega Blecua, a beautiful 19th century house with traces of the 11th century, where its flagship wine ages in an amazing barrel room.

Bodega Pirineosoffers visitors the possibility of fully participate in the production process, from the arrival of the grapes to wine tasting, in guided tours. In a similar way, Bodegas Sers allows visitors a complete immersion in the works of the field and the cellar. And in Bodegas Lalanne, originally from Bordeaux, you can visit a museum full of ancient artifacts, tools and agricultural machinery.

The architectural gem of the area, as far as bodegas are concerned, is undoubtedly Irius. The building stands out for its unique shapes – which fit perfectly into the environment – ,for the bioclimatic design and for the absence of pumping stations.

As regards the Route itself, it is important to bear in mind that wine tourism is not only about visiting bodegas.Without an important culture background behind it there would be no wine route; and although the bodegas and their wines are the central theme, cultural heritage, landscape, cuisine and local customs are all innate elements of a comprehensive and innovative tourism offer.