With its stunning scenery and diverse selection of wineries, Somontano is a must-visit Spanish destination for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can choose which winery to start their journey from amidst wine festivals.
The name Somontano means ‘the place beneath the mountains,’ referring to the Pyrenees. Tourists are sure to be amazed by the stunning backdrop of mountains, hills, and ravines. As the main city of the Somontano Wine Route, Barbastro is conveniently located just a 50-minute drive from Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon, and less than two hours from Barcelona. With 29 wineries producing nearly 270 different wines with 15 grape varieties, there is no doubt that Barbastro is the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts.
In 1984, Somontano was awarded a quality seal, just like other esteemed wine regions in the Autonomous Community of Aragon. The vineyards span across at least 43 municipalities, situated between 350 and 1,000 meters above sea level. Wines from the Somontano region and the Sierra de Guara exhibit high acidity and fruity flavors, which are a direct result of the unique altitudes and climatic conditions of the area. The intense aroma of these wines is a result of the hot days and cold nights during August and early September.
Somontano boasts several autochthonous grape varieties that are rarely found elsewhere, such as Paralta, Muristal, and Alcanyon Blanco. In addition to these native varieties, well-known grapes like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon for reds, and Chardonnay and Gewerztraminer for whites, can still be found. With over 120 years of cultivation in the area, these varieties have fully embraced the region’s unique character. Grape varieties such as Garnacha Blanca, Maccao, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo, Syrah, Garnacha Tinta, and Pinot Noir have undergone the process of ‘Somontanization’.
The Wine Route
Visit the Somontano Wine Route to experience all of these amazing offerings with confidence. The route offers a plethora of tourist resources, including wine-related attractions, grand architectural works, small treasures, and a wide variety of wineries. It is highly recommended to visit more than one winery, as each winery has its own unique character, ranging from those with a rich history to small family-owned wineries, modern wineries with stunning architecture, and innovative and classic ones. Rest assured that each of them will offer a memorable experience.
The tourist bus of the Wine Route operates throughout the year, offering eight routes starting in Zaragoza, Huesca, and Barbastro. The day trips will take you to the main attractions of Somontano, including a tour of Barbastro, tastings at Bodega Blecua and the veteran Bodega Viñas del Vero, and a visit to the medicinal baths of Salinar de Naval. You will have the opportunity to experience the best of Somontano in one day.
To fully experience the Camino wineries, don’t miss the ‘Tasting with Views’ experience. Don’t miss out on the diverse wine tastings and spectacular views offered during March. The Somontano Wine Festival in August is a must-see event that you should plan your visit around. Trust us, you won’t regret it. Celebrate Somontano’s greatest treasure with the abundance of red, white, and rosé wines that fill the streets with the region. Indulge in the greatest pleasure and experience the expertise of the finest wineries in the world.
Make sure to mark your calendar for Enotourism Month, which boasts over 40 winter events and offerings, including premium tastings at world-renowned wineries such as Viñas del Vero, El Grillo, and La Luna.
Somontano is More Than Just Wine
Somontano offers more than just a good wine; it provides an unforgettable experience that can be enhanced by the spectacular views and local culture. Tourists visiting the area will be amazed to discover one of the largest reserves in Aragon: the Natural Park of the Sierra and the Canyons of Guara, located just 1 km from Barbastro. Within the park, visitors can take walks along various routes with different levels of difficulty, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The main activity in the area is canyoning, making it one of the most prestigious destinations in Europe for this activity.
The combination of gastronomy and culture is inseparable. After visiting the Cathedral of Barbastro, the museum, and the Buddhist temple ‘The Tibet of Alto Aragón,’ you can experience the aromas of this culinary excellence during your tours of the different villages.
The unique local cuisine of the region is recognized for its high quality meats and fresh seasonal products. For example, Aragón lamb meat (ternasco de Aragón), boutique cheeses, chiretas, and sausages pair exceptionally well with the fruits of the orchard.
Moreover, the famous pink tomato of Barbastro, renowned for its special and intense flavor, is the perfect complement to any meal. Each dish must be accompanied by Somontano wines to enhance the overall dining experience. Be sure to save room for the traditional desserts unique to Somontano, such as Barbastro Flower Cake, pumpkin pie, and the classic anise liqueur or brandy. These treats are a culinary experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world and are guaranteed to leave every visitor wanting to return.
